"We haven't come a long way, we've come a short way. If we hadn't come a short way, no one would be calling us baby." ~Elizabeth Janeway
Using Your First TamponYou may feel nervous about using a tampon for the first time. It is normal to feel nervous, especially if you have any questions about tampons.
Hopefully, i can answer some of your questions, address your worries, and make your first experience with tampons a positive one!
How to Insert a Tampon
Most of us try to use a tampon at some time, so it's important to know how to insert a tampon the right way. It might seem tricky at first, but after trying several times, tampon insertion becomes as easy as putting on a glove.
The key is to RELAX! Worrying about it may make you tense, making insertion even harder. Read the package instruction leaflet carefully, and practice inserting a tampon during your period when your flow is moderate to heavy. The tampon should glide in easily. Lubricating the rounded end of the tampon applicator with a water-based gel for the first few tries can also be helpful.
- has great advice for a young woman expecting her period any minute, or finally experiencing the first period.
What are tampons and how do they work?
Tampons, like pads, are products used to absorb your menstrual flow. They are made of soft cotton pressed together to form a cylinder-like shape, so that they can be easily inserted into the opening of the vagina. A tampon absorbs your menstrual flow, or blood, before it has a chance to leave the body. Tampons come in all different sizes and absorbencies, and can be purchased at most convenience stores or supermarkets.
How do you insert a tampon?
It’s a good idea to use the smallest size tampon when you are learning how to use tampons for the first time. It is also easier to insert it when your menstrual flow is moderate to heavy as this allows the tampon to glide in more easily. By following the simple guidelines below, as well as the instructions that come with the tampons, your first experience with tampons should be easy. Remember, the more you relax, the easier the insertion will be. When you are nervous, your muscles tense up, which can make inserting the tampon more difficult.
Instructions for inserting a tampon with a built-in applicator:
1. Wash your hands with soap and water. With dry hands, unwrap the tampon. We understand that the first time you insert the tampon you’re going to be a little bit nervous. If you drop the tampon on the floor, throw it away and begin again with a new tampon.
2. Sit or stand in a comfortable position. Some women prefer to place one leg on the toilet seat or tub, while others prefer to squat down. After you find a position that is most comfortable for you, hold the tampon with the fingers that you write with. Hold the middle of the tampon, at the spot where the smaller, inner tube inserts into the larger, outer tube. Make sure the string is visible and pointing away from your body.
3. With your other hand, open the labia (the folds of skin around the vaginal opening) and position the tampon in the vaginal opening. (See picture 1 below).
4. Gently push the tampon into the opening, aiming for the small of your back. Stop when your fingers touch your body and the applicator, or outer tube, is completely inside the vagina. (See picture 2 below).
5. Once the applicator or outer tube is inside your vagina, use your index finger to push the inner tube(the tube where the removal string is visible) through the outer tube. This pushes the tampon into the vagina.
6. Once the inner tube is all the way in, use your thumb and middle
finger to remove the applicator or outer tube. (See picture 3 below). Make sure that the string hangs outside of your vaginal opening. Later, when you are ready to remove the tampon, hold the string and gently pull it downward until the entire tampon is out.
Once a tampon is inserted correctly, (all the way in) you should not feel it.
If you feel uncomfortable in any way, you may have inserted the tampon incorrectly or the tampon may not be placed far enough into the vagina. If this happens, just remove the tampon and start again with a new tampon. Remember that practice makes perfect. If you don't get it on the first try, your second try will most likely be successful. Instead of getting frustrated and giving up, relax and try agai
What if I still don't succeed?
If you are not able to insert a tampon after several tries, make an appointment with us, and we can coach you through or identify a minor physical obstruction that we can fix. You may have been born with a very small opening in your hymen, or a septum dividing the opening which prevents you from inserting tampons. This is true in about 2% of teens; we can help.
A mirror is often helpful so that you can see exactly where your vaginal opening is. You can also try using vaginal lubricant (K-Y Jelly or Astroglide) on the end of the tampon to help it glide in.
What is TSS?
TSS stands for Toxic Shock Syndrome. It is a rare but potentially dangerous infection. TSS can affect anyone, male or female. However, it occurs most frequently in young women who wear tampons.
Tampons themselves do not cause TSS. TSS is caused by bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus. When a tampon is left inside your vagina for too long, it creates a perfect environment for different types of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, to grow. You will probably never get TSS, but it's good to know what the symptoms are and how to avoid putting yourself at risk.
To avoid developing TSS, follow these guidelines when using tampons:
- Use care in inserting tampons. Wash your hands before inserting of taking out your tampon. Make sure your fingernails are not sharp or jagged (to avoid tearing your skin).
- Change your tampons at least every 4-6 hours or more often if necessary.
- Choose the correct tampon absorbency. Use smaller sized tampons when your flow is lighter. TSS occurs more often when super-absorbent tampons are used. Don't use these unless your menstrual flow is extremely heavy.
- Alternate between pad and tampon use. Try using pads at night, and tampons in the daytime.
- Don't use tampons to absorb anything other than your menstrual flow. Only insert a tampon once menstrual blood is present.
Tampons: FAQs:
How old do you have to be to use tampons?
Most girls start off using pads during their periods, and we recommend you do too. Some girls find it easiest to use pads until they have settled into the routine of their periods. You can use tampons when you are ready to try them. If you have any questions or need advice, talk to your mom, school nurse, or other trusted adult.
Can I use a tampon overnight?
Yes. Tampons can be worn for up to eight hours during the day or night. They give you great protection, and stay in place no matter how much you flip around when you sleep! One thing, though, if you usually sleep more than 8 hours, you should use an Always® pad instead.
Can tampons be used for discharges other than menstrual fluid?
No - you should only use Tampax tampons during your period. Remember, a little discharge is normal. You can use Always pantiliners for that if you like. (If you think you have a lot of discharge between periods, talk to your doctor.)
Can I use two tampons at the same time?
No. Only use one tampon at a time. If you're worried that your flow is too heavy, use our Super Plus absorbency size, or use a pad with a tampon for extra protection.
When I use a tampon, should I wear a pad too?
Sometimes it's helpful to wear a pantiliner when you're first getting used to tampons until you know how often to change them and which absorbency is best for you.
Should I use tampons with cardboard or plastic applicators?
This is totally up to you. Some girls/women like plastic applicators because they find them easier to insert. Others like cardboard because they're flushable. Try both and see which you prefer.
Again, it's totally your choice. Some girls and women think Tampax tampons help make their periods easier and less stressful because they can still do what they usually do - even go swimming! But which type of protection to use is a personal choice only you can make.
What size tampons should I use?
It's best to use the lowest absorbency tampon you can - while still getting the best protection. The right absorbency tampon will also be the most comfortable. For more information on tampon usage, see the product information section.
Should small women or girls use smaller size tampons?
There's no medical reason to believe that women who are physically small need a specially designed tampon.
Very small women (whether short or thin) can have babies of normal size - this means that their reproductive abilities are normal with respect to size. The absorbency of the tampon you choose should be based on the amount of menstrual flow you have, not your physical size. Larger women and girls should use larger pads for extra protection, many pads offers a variety in many sizes.
Will I get an allergic reaction if I use deodorant tampons?
Deodorants are a form of perfume. Like any perfume, some people are sensitive to them. Only you will know if this is the case for you!
Will I still be a virgin if I use tampons?
Yes. A virgin is someone who hasn't had sexual intercourse. It has nothing to do with using tampons. The hymen, a flexible membrane that partially covers the vaginal opening, is usually still intact for girls who haven't had sexual intercourse. Most girls can slide a tampon in through that same opening that lets menstrual fluid out without affecting the hymen.
Can a tampon get "lost" inside of you? NO NO NO!
Excellent Question - but fortunately, no! There's no place for it to go. The tampon goes into the vagina. At the top of the vagina is the opening of the cervix. This opening is tiny - about as thick as a pencil point. That's far too small to let a tampon through to any other part of your body. Besides, the tampon is held in place by the muscles of your vagina until you pull gently on the cord to remove it.
Can a tampon fall out? NO!
When properly inserted, a tampon is held in place by the muscles around the entrance to the vagina, so it can't fall out.
What if a tampon gets stuck?
A tampon can't get "stuck" inside you. After you put the tampon in, the muscles at the vaginal opening will hold it in place until you remove it by gently pulling on the string. If it feels hard to pull out, there are a few things to do: first, try to relax. You might be tense and "holding" your muscles. Second, you may want to leave the tampon in a little longer -it may not have absorbed enough menstrual fluid to become soft and pliable.
Do tampons plug up the flow?
Tampons absorb menstrual fluid in the vagina. Because of the shape of the vagina, they can't totally "plug up" the flow, even before they reach their full absorbency. Think of trying to "cork" a soda bottle with a wad of cotton - once the cotton gets soaked, the soda will come out. It's the same with a tampon - once it gets soaked, the menstrual fluid may leak out. But keep in mind that menstrual fluid flows very slowly - just drops at a time.
Do tampons make the vagina get bigger?
There is no medical or anatomical reason to believe that using tampons makes the vagina larger. The vagina is a muscular tube, that can accomodate much more volume than a tampon, without damaging the musculature.
What if the withdrawal string breaks? - it won't!
Almost impossible, but on the small chance that it does break, it's pretty easy to reach the tampon with your fingers. Wash your hands and squat down or use the same position you used to comfortably insert the tampon to remove it. If you really can't do it yourself, you should see me THE SAME DAY. (It is no big deal to come in and have it removed, at least once a month someone just starting out with tampons is nervous, and asks for help. That's what I am here for.)
Do tampons hurt?
No, they should not feel like anything. If inserted a tampon the right way, you shouldn't feel any discomfort. Tampons are placed into the vagina through the same opening from which menstrual fluid leaves your body. For just about everybody, this opening is large enough to hold a tampon comfortably.
Follow the instructions given in our package insert carefully - or check the insertion instructions on this Web site. You'll see that using Tampax tampons is really easy.
Are some people allergic to tampons?
The materials are thoroughly tested. But everyone is different, and a small number of people may be sensitive to materials that most people find ok.
Can tampons cause STDs (sexuallytransmitted diseases)?
No. Sexually transmitted diseases are caused by several varieties of microorganisms. These organisms aren't present in Tampax® tampons. Since the organisms aren't there, tampons can't cause sexually transmitted diseases. BG STD content currently found here:
Can you get AIDS from wearing a tampon?
No, you can't get AIDS from wearing a tampon. AIDS is caused by a virus that does not survive very well outside of the body. It can't be caught from toilet seats, swimming pools - or tampons. The AIDS virus isn't spread through casual contact - but through intimate contact with body fluids. It is spread through sexual relations and direct blood-to-blood contact, such as sharing hypodermic needles.
Does using tampons cause ovarian cysts?
NO! There's no evidence that the use of tampons has any relationship to the development of ovarian cysts.
Do tampons keep clots in the uterus?
Menstrual blood normally clots in the uterus, and these clots usually dissolve before passing to the vagina. If a tampon is worn, the clots will either stick to or be absorbed by the tampon and removed when the tampon is taken out.
Is a tampon easy to take out?
Yes, because the vagina is a blind vaginal pouch, (think of a sock, if you put a barrette in there, you would find it, there is no where else for it to go...) The cord on tampons is sewn up through the entire length of the tampon so it won't come loose. Just pull the cord gently.
Can you feel a tampon inside you?
When the tampon has been inserted the right way, you shouldn't even be aware it's in place. If you can feel the tampon, it probably hasn't been inserted far enough into the vagina. You should remove that tampon and insert a new one, or you could just try pushing it further in with your finger.
Is it normal to feel faint while putting in a tampon?
No, it's not common, but it could happen. Some girls have found that they will feel faint when inserting a tampon, especially for the first time. If this happens, stop trying to insert it and take a break. After a little while, you could try again. If you have difficulty, you may find using a small amount of lubricating jelly (not petroleum jelly) on and around the tip of the tampon and the outer tube will help to simplify insertion. Some beginners have to try a few times before they're successful.
Do I have to take the tampon out every time I go to the bathroom?
No. Urine comes through the urethra; "stool," when you defecate, comes through the anus. These are two separate openings. The tampon goes into the vagina - another opening between the urethra and anus. You might want to move the string out of the way when you go, though. If you're going to urinate, pull the string to the back or side, and if you're going to defecate, pull it to the front. (By the way, remember, to prevent infections always wipe from front to back when you go to the bathroom.)
How often should I change my tampon?
If you find you have to change your tampon more frequently than every four hours, you may need to use a tampon with higher absorbency. On the other hand, if you change a tampon after wearing it for eight hours and find that it's not saturated and white is showing, you should use a tampon with lower absorbency.
Changing a tampon too frequently can affect the tampon's ability to absorb - that's because the tampon needs a little moisture to expand. Also, changing tampons a lot when your flow is light may cause irritation.
How do you know when to change a tampon?
In general a tampon should be changed every 4 hours. But here are some guidelines to help you figure out when it's time to change it: A tampon should be easy to remove. If it feels "stuck" or dry, it probably has not been left in long enough to collect moisture.
On the other hand, if you go to the bathroom and the tampon string is wet with menstrual fluid, it is probably fully saturated and needs to be changed. The better you get to know your own flow, the easier it will be to know when to change it and which absorbency is best for you.
Why does the blood leak out of the tampon?
This happens for a few reasons: the tampon may have reached its full capacity to absorb, it may not have been inserted the right way, or you may not be using the right absorbency for your menstrual flow. Remember, the tampon is not a "plug". Some women experience leakage because of the shape of their vaginas. Pantiliners help to catch any extra blood so that it doesn't stain your underclothes.
How often should I change my tampon to avoid TSS?
There is very remote risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) associated with tampon use. To reduce the risk of menstrual TSS, use a tampon with the least amount of absorbency needed to control your menstrual flow. You can also reduce the risk of TSS by alternating your tampon use with feminine pads. For more information please refer to leaflet in every box of tampons.
Can I go to the bathroom with a tampon in?
Sure! Each female has three separate openings: the urinary, the vaginal, and the anal opening. Therefore, a tampon that's placed in the vagina won't be affected when you use the bathroom. When you urinate, you might want to hold the cord to one side so it won't get wet. If it does become damp, just dry it with a piece of toilet tissue.
Why does a tampon become damp during urination?
If the tampon itself (not the string) becomes saturated with urine, that probably means it hasn't been put in far enough into the vagina. Take it out and insert a new one.
Can you bathe/shower with a tampon in?
Of course. Tampons are the only form of menstrual protection to use while bathing or showering. It's really up to you if you want to wear a tampon when bathing or showering. You don't have to - but many girls/women prefer it.
Should I use tampons if I am involved in athletic and dance activities? YES!!!
For athletic activities, especially those requiring a tight-fitting outfit, such as ballet, gymnastics, or skiing, tampons are a good choice, since no one will notice that you are menstruating. In addition, tampons are the only suitable form of menstrual protection for swimmers. Once an athlete feels comfortable using a tampon, she rarely goes back to accept the bulkiness of the pads.
[some info edited from youngwomenshealth.org, beinggirl.com]
"One is not born a woman, one becomes one." ~Simone de Beauvoir
