How to Put in a Tampon OR

How to Put in a Tampon

Learning how to put in a tampon is often a frustrating and embarrassing experience, especially as we become more informed in our personal and professional lives. Let’s rewind back to the 1950s.

Tampon

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When removing a tampon, sit over the toilet and carefully grab the string between two fingers, gently pulling out at the same angle you used to insert it. You may not be able to remove it if you are tense, so relax and pull slowly and steadily. Flush the used tampon when finished. First of all, remember that your vagina is stretchy enough for a baby to fit through, so a tampon is no big deal! Tampon sizes are based on the amount of fluid they absorb. Not sure what tampon size to start with? Most women use a Regular absorbency. If you want to start with the smallest size tampon until you figure it out, try the Light size. Tampon leaks in just a few hours? Go Up; Tampon uncomfortable to change? Go Down. You can compare tampons and their sizes based on your menstrual flow. (Source:

Unwrap your tampon and make sure you know how it works! If you’ve never really looked at a tampon, it can look intimidating, but the tampon itself is INSIDE the applicator. The applicator makes it easy to get the tampon into your vagina. Some are plastic; some are cardboard; both can be used safely! The applicator has a larger, outer tube that holds the tampon, a “grip” area where you’ll hold it, and a smaller tube at the end with the string coming out. The smaller tube is actually a “plunger” that you use to push the tampon out when it’s time. Check out this diagram of a Tampax Pearl tampon to see each component. Find a comfortable position that lets you relax and still reach your vagina. Most people will sit on the toilet or stand while slightly squatting to insert a tampon, but you can also try lying down or propping one foot on a step or other raised surface (ex. the edge of your tub). The most important thing is to take a deep breath and relax all those muscles “down there.” If you squeeze your butt or the muscles around the vagina, it will not be as easy to insert the tampon. (Source: tampax.com)