A tampon is a menstrual product inserted into the vagina to absorb fluid internally. This method allows individuals to participate in activities like swimming or rigorous exercise without obstruction. For those considering using tampons, understanding the anatomy and product design helps demystify the experience. This article explores the physical sensations associated with initial placement and the ideal experience of wearing a tampon.
The Sensation of Insertion
The immediate physical experience of inserting a tampon involves a sensation primarily characterized by pressure rather than sharp pain. The vaginal canal is a flexible, muscular tube that is not a straight path. The tampon must be directed slightly backward toward the lower back, following the body’s natural curve, to minimize friction and displacement.
The use of an applicator, whether plastic or cardboard, can help guide the product more smoothly past the vaginal opening. The opening itself contains more nerve endings than the deeper canal, meaning that the initial push is where the most physical awareness occurs. Relaxation is helpful, as tension in the pelvic floor muscles can inadvertently narrow the canal, making insertion more difficult.
The body’s natural lubrication, especially during menstruation, assists the tampon in sliding into the correct position. If the flow is very light, the process may feel slightly drier, increasing the sense of friction. Taking a slow, deep breath can help relax the muscles and make the transition past the opening more fluid, ensuring the tampon reaches its intended depth.
What It Feels Like While Wearing a Tampon
When a tampon is positioned correctly, the overwhelming sensation should be one of complete absence, feeling like nothing is there at all. The vagina narrows at the top near the cervix, and the tampon is designed to rest in the middle to upper third of the canal. This upper section of the vagina has significantly fewer pain receptors compared to the lower third and the external tissues of the vulva.
Because of this reduced nerve density in the upper canal, the absorbent material can expand and hold fluid without sending constant sensory signals to the brain. If the tampon is deep enough, movement, sitting, or exercise should not cause the wearer to feel the product itself. The lack of sensation indicates that the tampon has bypassed the more sensitive lower regions.
The only physical indication of the tampon’s presence should be the feeling of the retrieval string. This string typically rests just outside the body, against the vulvar lips, and can occasionally be felt during movement or bathroom use. However, the feeling of the string is external and distinct from the internal sensation of the tampon material itself.
A correctly placed tampon rests securely behind the pubic bone, held in place by the vaginal walls. The expansion of the material as it absorbs fluid is internal and generally imperceptible. As it fills, the material becomes softer, preventing the firm pressure sensation that might be expected.
Why You Might Feel Discomfort
A common reason for experiencing noticeable discomfort is improper placement, where the tampon remains too shallow within the vaginal canal. If the product is not pushed past the muscles of the pelvic floor, it sits closer to the highly sensitive lower third and opening of the vagina. This shallow placement can result in sensations of rubbing, pressure, or a persistent feeling of awareness with every step or movement, often felt near the vaginal vestibule.
Another source of discomfort occurs during the removal process, particularly if the tampon is not fully saturated with menstrual fluid. When the absorbent material is dry, pulling it out can cause a scraping or dragging sensation against the vaginal walls. This friction can be minimized by ensuring the flow is heavy enough for the absorbency size being used, or by waiting until the product is adequately full before withdrawal.
Using an absorbency level that is too high for the current flow can also contribute to dryness and subsequent removal pain. A super-absorbency tampon used on a light day will absorb all available moisture, including natural vaginal lubrication, leading to potential irritation. Choosing the smallest size necessary for the flow helps maintain comfort and prevents unnecessary friction both while wearing and during withdrawal.