Tampons are cylindrical products made of absorbent material designed to be temporarily placed inside the body to soak up menstrual fluid. This method provides discreet protection by absorbing the flow internally within the muscular canal of the vagina. Understanding the exact anatomical location and the precise steps for insertion is fundamental to using this product effectively and comfortably.
Identifying the Correct Opening
The correct anatomical location for tampon insertion is the vaginal opening, situated within the external genitalia, or vulva. The vagina is a muscular canal that extends inward and is designed to accommodate objects like a tampon and allow for the passage of menstrual fluid.
The vaginal opening is positioned between two other openings: the urethra, where urine exits the body, and the anus, which is located further back. It is impossible to insert a tampon into the urethra because that opening is significantly smaller than the tampon’s diameter. The vaginal canal is often described as a potential space, meaning the walls generally rest against each other and only open up to accommodate the tampon.
The Mechanics of Insertion
Before attempting insertion, finding a comfortable and relaxed position is helpful, as tension in the pelvic muscles can make the process more difficult. Some individuals prefer sitting on the toilet with their knees apart, while others find it easier to stand with one foot propped up on a stable surface.
The next step involves carefully positioning the tampon or applicator at the vaginal opening. Because the vaginal canal curves slightly upward and backward, the tampon should be aimed at an approximate 45-degree angle, pointing toward the small of the back. Attempting to insert straight up can be met with resistance and cause discomfort.
If using an applicator, the outer tube is gently pushed into the opening at this angle until the fingers gripping the applicator touch the vulva. Once the outer tube is fully inserted, the inner tube, or plunger, is pushed completely forward to release the absorbent core into the proper internal position. For digital tampons without an applicator, a clean finger is used to push the tampon itself deep into the canal until the finger reaches the vaginal opening.
Ensuring Proper Placement and Comfort
The success of a tampon insertion is determined by the resulting sensation, or rather, the lack thereof. When a tampon is placed correctly, high up in the vaginal canal, the individual should not be able to feel it at all. The upper two-thirds of the vagina have very few nerve endings, which is why a properly placed tampon goes unnoticed.
If a person feels any discomfort, pressure, or the sensation of the tampon “wedged” inside, it usually indicates that the tampon has not been pushed in far enough. A tampon that remains too close to the vaginal opening, which contains more sensitive nerve endings, will cause irritation and pain. In this case, the tampon needs to be adjusted by gently pushing it further inward with a clean finger, or it should be removed and a new one inserted more deeply.
The only part of the tampon that should be visible externally is the removal string, which is designed to hang outside the body. This string allows for easy retrieval of the saturated product when it is time for a change. Once the tampon is correctly situated, it will be held in place by the surrounding vaginal muscles, performing its function without interference with daily activities.