Are you scared at the thought of wearing a tampon for the first time? Many women feel the same way, but there are steps you can take to relieve that fear and make your first experience easier. Start by learning to understand the body and tampons in general. Contact female friends and family members for advice. You should stay relaxed the first time you try using a tampon and take as much time as needed.
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Part 1 of 3: Understanding Tampons and Your Own Body
Step 1. Learn about tampons and other alternatives
There is no necessity to use tampons during the menstrual period. In fact, many women prefer to use sanitary napkins or menstrual cups. Tampons give you more freedom of movement and are more practical for exercising, especially in water. However, it takes a bit of special effort to handle a tampon or insert it.
- Pads are attached to the inside of the underwear to absorb blood flow. In the market, sanitary napkins are sold in various sizes, ranging from thin pads for short-term use to thick pads that are used throughout the night. Many women find sanitary napkins too thick and impractical. However, pads are easy to use and are a safe option if you're worried about forgetting to change your tampon regularly.
- Menstrual cups are small flexible rubber cups that fit inside the vaginal canal. You put it in by hand and the cup will collect the blood. The cup should be removed periodically to remove any accumulated blood and rinse before repeating the same procedure. Women who are concerned about the material of tampons may be more comfortable with this option. However, you must learn how to properly remove and insert the cup.
Step 2. Identify the parts of a tampon
After opening the plastic packaging of the tampon, you will see the tampon itself and the threads attached. The tampon applicator is a hard plastic cover including a tube that covers the inside that will absorb blood, a grip area, and a plunger to help the tampon into the vaginal canal. Go ahead if you want to flip through the tampon to take a closer look.
- If you're worried about the strings to remove the tampon, just try pulling it once or twice. You will notice that the thread is very tight and the chances of breaking are quite small. To reduce worries, you can test the floss of each tampon before using it.
- In addition, there is no harm in getting into the habit of checking the outer packaging carefully. Never use a tampon from a torn or damaged package.
Step 3. Do some research to learn about different brands
Not all tampons are the same. Before going to the store to buy one, visit the websites of some well-known brands, such as Tampax, and take a look at the different types of tampons available. As a beginner, we recommend that you choose a brand for a light, thin flow with the applicator attached.
- You can also buy packs with mixed contents, including large sizes for heavy flow days. We recommend that you use this type only after you are comfortable with the whole process.
- You can also buy tampons without an applicator. For this type, you have to use your finger to insert it. Tampons with applicators are usually the best choice for beginners because they are easier to handle.
Step 4. Learn more about the body and the reproductive system
Go to a place that gives you privacy, such as the bathroom, then sit on the toilet and use a small mirror to examine your vulva or the outside of your genitals. Don't be afraid because you won't hurt yourself. You will notice the vaginal opening in the middle and the opening is smaller, while the urethra (for urination) is in the same area, but smaller. You have to insert the tampon into the vaginal opening. Getting to know your body better will make you more confident so you can use tampons properly.
- Don't forget to wash your hands before and after touching the vagina. This step prevents the transmission of germs.
- You may notice that the vaginal opening isn't big enough to hold a tampon, but that's not going to happen. With a little lubrication, usually menstrual blood, this opening will stretch large enough to accommodate a tampon.
- If you search the internet for more about female anatomy, you'll find that a person won't lose their virginity just because of using a tampon. Tampons are unlikely to tear the hymen (the tissue that covers the vaginal opening deep inside). New virginity can be lost if someone has sex.
Step 5. Look at a diagram or online video showing how to insert a tampon
Many trusted websites, including The Period Blog, provide pictures of how to insert and remove a tampon step by step. Some sites even allow you to ask questions in the comments section which a moderator will answer later.
- There's nothing wrong with reading the instruction sheet on the tampon package. This sheet generally shows a diagram of how to use a tampon as well as safety information.
- Studying the anatomy and diagrams of using tampons will help you understand that the vagina is basically a tube that leads to the cervix. This means that it is impossible for a tampon to be permanently "lost" in the body. It's just a myth.
Step 6. Ask friends or relatives for advice
If you have a female friend who is older, menstruating and has experience with using tampons, you can ask her how to use them. He may be able to give you some tips and suggestions. Mothers or other female relatives can also be sources of information. Make sure the person doesn't share your discussions and questions with others.
For example, you could say, “I want to try using a tampon for the first time. Can you recommend a suitable brand for me?” Or, "Can you give me some advice to make it easier for me to put on a tampon the first time?"
Step 7. Talk to your family doctor or nurse at school
Ask parents to make an appointment with a pediatrician or general practitioner. If you trust the school nurse, meet her and ask if you can talk to her in private. Describe the situation you're in and ask any questions you'd like to have.
- You might say, “I'm thinking about starting tampons. Is there a risk? What are the advantages of tampons over pads?"
- This is a good time to consider whether you trust and are comfortable talking to a family doctor. If not, maybe you can talk to your parents about choosing another doctor.
Part 2 of 3: Creating Positive Experiences
Step 1. Find a place that has privacy so that no one intrudes
When you feel ready to use a tampon, go somewhere where you won't be disturbed. The bathroom at home can be an ideal choice because school toilets are a public place and a lot of distractions. If you're afraid you'll be in trouble at home, you can pretend you're in the shower while trying to put on a tampon.
Don't forget to wash your hands before and after touching and using tampons
Step 2. Take a deep breath
Try to relax. You can take a few deep breaths, then count backwards from 10. You can also repeat the phrase “You can do it” in your mind. Listening to relaxing music on your iPod or stretching can also help.
Step 3. Think about calming things
Imagine you are somewhere else doing something fun. Think about the difficult things you have overcome in the past. Remind yourself that in a few years you will get used to wearing tampons with your eyes closed. You have to relax mentally and physically so that your vaginal muscles don't contract as this will make it difficult for you to insert a tampon.
If you find it difficult to relax, don't force it. Try another time. If you feel your vaginal muscles contract, you may have a condition called vaginismus. This is a normal physical response to stress and will subside once you relax
Step 4. Just relax
There's no need to rush. Even if you just take the time to observe the tampon, it can be considered progress. Besides, it's better to take it slowly and have a good experience than to rush and get tired.
Part 3 of 3: Inserting and Removing Tampons
Step 1. Take a squat or sitting position
You can sit on the toilet and try to insert a tampon, but many women choose an alternative position. Raise one leg on the toilet seat for wider access to the vaginal area. You can also try a squat position and widen the distance between your legs. Feel free to try different positions to find the one that suits you best.
Some women choose a location other than the bathroom when trying to use a tampon for the first time. Instead, you can lie in bed and spread your legs apart. Or, stand up and use a chair to maintain balance
Step 2. Find the vaginal opening
Use your hands to find the vaginal opening as you saw in the mirror earlier. Then, point the applicator towards the vaginal opening. If you are not experienced, this method will be easier and more convenient than trying to find it with an applicator.
Step 3. Hold the tampon in the grip area
Position your middle finger and thumb on either side of the applicator, holding it firmly. You can also place your index finger on the tip of the pusher. Of course, you can practice holding this way until you find a position that works best for you. The most important thing is to grip the grip area firmly.
Step 4. Insert the tip of the applicator
Gently guide the tip of the applicator toward the vaginal canal. The entire applicator should be inserted into the vagina, while the grip and finger areas remain outside. So, the applicator tube is inside and the grip area is outside. The applicator must be parallel to the floor. If you push the applicator vertically, it will touch the upper wall of the vaginal canal.
- If the area is sufficiently lubricated, the applicator glides on easily. You don't have to push it too hard or forcefully.
- This step is usually a source of trouble for beginners. If necessary, take several deep breaths and pause before inserting the applicator.
Step 5. Push the part that serves as the plunger inward
Grab the tip of the plunger with your index finger, then push it until it touches the outer tube of the applicator. Do not release the grip on the grip area. When the plunger is fully in, grip the grip area firmly and pull the applicator out of the vagina.
If the applicator is deep enough in your vagina, you won't feel the presence of the tampon at all. If the tampon is placed too low, you can feel its presence and be a little uncomfortable. To solve this problem, you can simply pull the string to remove the tampon and repeat the same process with a new tampon
Step 6. Stop if you feel pain
If you feel uncomfortable when you insert a tampon the first time, that's normal. It may be due to nervousness or it may be that the tampon is positioned too low. However, you shouldn't feel any pain. If this happens, stop what you are doing. You can try again later or consult a doctor.
Step 7. Remove the tampon by pulling the thread down
When the tampon is fully inserted, you will see the strings hanging from your body. That's how it should be. Do not thread the vagina, leave it outside. When you want to remove the tampon, hold the string and gently pull it down. The tampon will slide out of your body easily when you pull the string.
- Some people prefer to remove the tampon before urinating so the string doesn't get wet with urine.
- Also, make sure you throw away all parts of the tampon after each use. Don't throw tampons down the toilet as they can cause problems.
Step 8. Change tampons regularly
Follow the directions for use on the packaging of your tampon, but in general you will need to replace it every 4-6 hours. If you have heavy days, it is advisable to change your tampon more often. Establishing and sticking to a schedule for changing tampons properly will prevent you from stressing out.
- Some women choose to use tampons and pads interchangeably. This idea is perfect for the evening.
- Make sure you change tampons to prevent TS syndrome (Toxic Shock Syndrome). This disease can be life-threatening and can be prevented by using tampons carefully.
Step 9. Don't give up if you don't succeed the first time
If you don't get the tampon in the first time, that's fine. You are not alone in this. Many women try it once and then put off using it. If it doesn't fit, you can always replace it with a pad. Do what's best for you and don't forget to ask for help if needed.
Tips
- Use tampons only during menstrual periods. Tampons are not designed to treat vaginal discharge or other problems.
- The main key to success is relaxation. If you are nervous, it will be more difficult to insert the tampon.
- If possible, wear a panty liner along with a tampon to prevent minor leaks!
Warning
- It is recommended to use a panty liner with a tampon to prevent the risk of leakage.
- If you feel the tampon is stuck in your body, try to find the thread in the vaginal canal. If it doesn't work, go to a doctor who can remove it easily.
- Some women experience irritation when using tampons that contain certain fragrances or brands. If you experience this, try another brand and see if the situation improves.
