When a tampon is inserted correctly, it should be virtually unnoticeable, so feeling its presence can be confusing and mildly uncomfortable. This sensation, described as pressure or awareness rather than sharp pain, is a very common experience. It is almost always a sign of improper placement, meaning the tampon is resting in the highly sensitive outer area of the vaginal canal. The goal is to move the tampon into the inner, less innervated portion of the vagina.
Understanding the Sensation: Why You Can Feel the Tampon
The reason you can feel a tampon when you shouldn’t is directly related to the anatomy of the vaginal canal. The vagina is a muscular, flexible tube that extends upward and backward toward the cervix. The nerve endings are not distributed evenly throughout this canal.
The lower third of the vagina, closest to the opening, contains a high concentration of somatic nerve endings, making it highly sensitive to touch and pressure. In contrast, the upper two-thirds of the vagina have significantly fewer nerve endings. When a tampon is not inserted far enough, it remains in this sensitive lower zone, causing the feeling of pressure or awareness that you notice when you sit or move.
Another contributing factor is the angle of the tampon. The vaginal canal is not straight; it angles back toward the tailbone. If the tampon is inserted straight up, it can press against the vaginal wall uncomfortably. Additionally, a tampon used on a lighter flow day that is not fully saturated can cause friction and dryness in the sensitive lower area, preventing it from gliding into a comfortable position.
Immediate Steps to Resolve Discomfort
If you feel discomfort, first assess the tampon’s saturation level. If your flow is light and the tampon feels dry when gently tugged, it is likely causing friction and should be removed immediately. Switch to a new tampon with a lower absorbency level or use a different menstrual product for the remainder of your light flow day.
If the tampon appears to be absorbing fluid, attempt to push it higher into the canal. After washing your hands, use a clean finger to gently nudge the base of the tampon further until the sensation disappears. If this adjustment does not resolve the feeling, remove the tampon entirely and start fresh with a new one.
Once removed, inspect the used tampon to determine if incorrect placement caused the discomfort. If the tip is saturated but the base remains dry, it confirms the tampon was not deep enough. Discard it and prepare for a full reinsertion, paying close attention to the depth and angle of the new placement.
Mastering Proper Insertion Technique
To prevent the feeling of awareness, mastering the correct insertion technique is necessary. The primary goal is to ensure the tampon travels past the sensitive lower third of the vaginal canal. Relaxation is key, as tensing the pelvic floor muscles can narrow the opening and make insertion difficult.
Adopt a comfortable posture, such as sitting on the toilet, standing with slightly bent knees, or propping one foot up on a surface. When inserting the applicator, do not aim straight up, but angle it back toward the small of your back. This direction aligns with the natural curve of the vagina.
Push the applicator fully into the canal until your fingers holding the grip reach your body, and then push the plunger to release the tampon. If using a non-applicator style, your index finger should push the tampon until it is completely inside. When properly placed, the tampon should sit high in the non-sensitive upper portion of the vagina, becoming completely unnoticeable.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
While a feeling of pressure is usually a sign of misplacement, certain symptoms suggest the need for professional medical advice. If you experience sharp, intense pain during insertion or while wearing the tampon, or if discomfort persists even after attempting correct placement, you should consult a doctor. Persistent stinging or burning, especially around the vaginal opening, may indicate irritation or another underlying issue.
You should also seek immediate medical attention if the tampon is difficult or impossible to remove. Be aware of the signs of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), a rare but serious complication, which include:
- A sudden high fever.
- Vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Dizziness.
- A rash that resembles a sunburn.
Recognizing these symptoms ensures that any serious condition is addressed promptly.