A tampon is an internal menstrual product made from absorbent material, typically cotton or rayon, designed to soak up menstrual flow inside the vaginal canal. The tampon is highly compressed and expands once it absorbs fluid. Since the tampon must be placed deep within the vagina, a delivery system is used to facilitate this process. This delivery system is known as the tampon applicator.
Defining the Applicator’s Role
The primary function of the tampon applicator is to act as a hygienic and mechanical aid for insertion. It allows the user to position the compressed absorbent material high into the vaginal canal without direct finger contact. This hygienic benefit is useful in situations where handwashing facilities may not be immediately available before use.
The applicator ensures the tampon is pushed past the lower, more sensitive portion of the vaginal canal, placing it correctly near the cervix. When properly inserted, the tampon should not be felt, which indicates correct placement. The applicator serves as a guide, helping to push the tampon inward and slightly toward the lower back to align with the natural curve of the body. This mechanism makes the insertion process more comfortable and reliable for the user.
Anatomy and Materials
A standard tampon applicator consists of two main, telescoping parts: the outer barrel and the inner plunger. The outer barrel holds the tampon and is the part inserted first, while the inner plunger is pushed to release the tampon once the barrel is positioned. The wider end of the barrel often includes a finger grip, which helps the user hold the applicator steady during the process.
Applicators are commonly manufactured using plastic or cardboard. Plastic applicators are often preferred because they have a smoother surface and a rounded tip, making the insertion process easier. Cardboard applicators are favored for their environmental advantages, as they are biodegradable and recyclable. Although cardboard applicators may offer a less slick feel than plastic, they remain a sturdy option for environmentally conscious users.
Different Applicator Designs
Beyond the standard full-length design, applicators are available in a compact, or telescoping, style. The compact design is shorter when packaged, making it more discreet and easier to carry in a pocket or small bag. Before use, the inner plunger must be pulled out until it locks into place, extending the applicator to a full-size length.
The compact design is aimed at convenience and portability, as the actual absorbent tampon inside is identical to its full-size counterpart. Full-size applicators come pre-extended, which some users find simpler, especially beginners. Both styles function using the same mechanical principles of guiding the tampon into place and then using the plunger to push the cotton into the vagina.
Proper Disposal Methods
After the tampon has been inserted, the applicator must be disposed of correctly. Tampon applicators, whether plastic or cardboard, are never flushed down the toilet. Tampons and their applicators do not break down quickly like toilet paper, and flushing them can cause clogs in household plumbing or municipal sewer systems. These blockages can lead to costly repairs and potential sewage backflow.
The correct procedure for disposal is to wrap the used applicator in toilet paper or a tissue and then place it directly into a trash receptacle. Many public restrooms provide specific bins for feminine hygiene products. Even biodegradable cardboard applicators should go into the trash to prevent stress on wastewater treatment facilities.