How To Insert A Tampon: A Guide.

Inserting a tampon for the first time can be overwhelming, but after you learn the logic, with enough practice — it becomes second nature. Before you try, make sure your hands are clean and try to be as relaxed as possible, so as to make it easier to slide in. We designed this article to teach you, how to insert a tampon, with an applicator or your hands. We also want to teach you how to remove and dispose of a tampon properly.

What Is A Tampon?

A tampon is a feminine hygiene product inserted into the vagina canal to absorb blood during mensuration. It is held in place by the vagina muscle, when a tampon enters your vagina, it gradually expands to its full size as it absorbs Menstrual fluid.

Tampons stop leaks from inside, by catching your flow earlier, there’s a low chance of an accident, this implies you can go about your daily activities with great confidence. – swimming included!

You can insert a tampon into your vagina with your hands or with an applicator. There are two types of tampons: disposable and reusable.

You can wear a tampon for up to 8 hours, leaving a tampon in for long (8hrs and above) may cause toxic shock syndrome. Tampons come in different sizes which include Ultra, Super plus, Super, Regular, junior, or slim.

What Are Tampons Made Of?

  • Biodegradable tampons are made with organic cotton.

How To Choose An Appropriate Tampon Size.

You should choose your tampon size based on the amount of your flow.

  • Junior or slim– for light flow.
  • Regular– for normal flow.
  • Super plus- for heavy flow.
  • Ultra- for very heavy flow.

Each size has its own absorbent capacity, If a tampon’s absorbent capacity is higher than your Menstrual flow, the tampon will dry out your vagina and make you uncomfortable. This may lead to TSS(Toxic Shock Syndrome). Make sure you choose the right size of a tampon with respect to the amount of your menstrual flow.

How To Insert A Tampon Correctly.

Using An Applicator

Some tampons are sold with applicators made of plastic. They are like syringes, two tubes, the plunge ‘inner part’ and the barrel ‘outer part’.

How to insert a tampon with an applicator.

Step 1

Wash your hands to avoid contamination.

Step 2

Get into a very comfortable position. You can sit while spreading your leg. Alternatively, put a foot on the toilet seat while standing.

Step 3

Unwrap the tampon and ensure the tampon you are about to insert has a string.

Step 4

Using one hand insert the applicator with the tampon in it into your vagina opening.

Step 5

Push in gently until you reach the small indentation on the side of the tampon.

Step 6

Hold the indentation with two fingers.

Step 7

Push the inner tube inside of you and the tampon will slide out.

Step 8

Push gently until it stops.

Step 9

Pull the applicator out and dispose of it properly. (Ensure the tampon string dangles outside, it aids removal)

Without An Applicator.

How to insert a tampon without an applicator.

Step 1

Pull the tampon string from left to right and top to bottom, to create a pocket for your finger.

Step 2

Put your index finger in the pocket created.

Step 3

Grip the tampon between your thumb and middle finger and insert.

Step 4

Push the tampon in using your index finger.

Step 5

Pull out your finger and wash your hand.

Note: You should not feel a tampon whenever you have it on, push further if you do. A tampon should never hurt after insertion tampon.

How To Remove A Tampon

To remove a tampon:

  • Hold the string dangling out of your vagina.
  • Pull the string until the tampon is completely out.

How To Dispose Of A Tampon Properly?

  • Wrap the tampon in a good amount of tissue paper and throw it into a trash can.

Alternatively,

  • Wrap in a non-transparent plastic bag and throw it into the trash can.

Note: Do not flush down the toilet, it could block the water closet.

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