A tampon is a cylindrical device made of absorbent material, designed to be inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual fluid during menstruation. While tampons offer a discreet and convenient option for menstrual hygiene, many individuals experience discomfort or pain when using them.
Common Tampon Usage Errors
Improper insertion is a frequent cause of discomfort when using tampons. The vagina is not a straight canal; it angles upwards and backwards towards the lower back. Inserting a tampon straight up or horizontally can lead to it pressing uncomfortably against the vaginal walls or cervix. When a tampon is not pushed in far enough, it can remain near the vaginal opening, where nerve endings are more concentrated, causing a constant sensation of “feeling” the tampon or a poking discomfort.
Using an absorbency level that is too high for one’s menstrual flow can also contribute to pain. If the flow is light, a super-absorbent tampon may absorb not only menstrual fluid but also the natural vaginal lubrication, leading to dryness. This dryness makes insertion difficult and causes friction against delicate tissues, resulting in a sensation of scraping or pulling.
Proper angling is therefore important for comfortable tampon use. To correctly insert a tampon, one should aim towards the lower back, following the natural curve of the vaginal canal. Relaxing the pelvic floor muscles can also facilitate smoother insertion, as tension can restrict the vaginal opening. Ensuring the tampon is pushed in until it can no longer be felt helps confirm it is positioned beyond the sensitive lower vaginal area.
Discomfort During Removal
Pain during tampon removal often stems from the tampon not being fully saturated. This commonly occurs if the absorbency level of the tampon is too high for the volume of menstrual flow, or if the tampon has not been left in long enough to absorb sufficient fluid. A dry or partially saturated tampon creates friction against the vaginal walls as it is withdrawn, leading to a sensation of scraping or dragging discomfort.
The lack of saturation means the tampon’s fibers are still relatively rigid and dry. Pulling the removal string at an awkward angle can also exacerbate this discomfort. A direct, steady pull along the natural curve of the vagina helps minimize friction during removal. Changing tampons more frequently, especially during lighter flow days, or opting for a lower absorbency can help ensure adequate saturation.
Medical Conditions and Tampon Pain
Persistent or severe tampon pain can indicate underlying medical conditions. Vaginal infections, such as yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis, cause inflammation, itching, and irritation of the vaginal tissues, which can be aggravated by tampon insertion or presence. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can also cause pelvic discomfort that might be intensified by pressure from a tampon. These conditions often present with additional symptoms like unusual discharge, burning, or a foul odor.
Vaginismus involves involuntary spasms of the pelvic floor muscles, which can make tampon insertion difficult or impossible due to sudden tightening of the vaginal opening. Endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, can cause chronic pelvic pain that may worsen with any pressure or activity in the vaginal area, including tampon use. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can also lead to deep pelvic pain that external or internal pressure might exacerbate. Cervical polyps can sometimes be irritated by tampon insertion, leading to spotting or discomfort. If tampon pain is persistent, severe, or accompanied by symptoms such as unusual discharge, itching, burning, fever, or changes in menstrual patterns, seeking medical advice is important.