The first time you use a tampon can be intimidating, but once you get past the initial application and figure out how to use it, it becomes old hat. Natural period products are gentle on your body and don’t use artificial fibers. The tampon consists of a tube of cotton within a tube called the applicator. The applicator lets you slide the cotton material into your body where it absorbs your period blood. The string allows you to easily slide the tampon out when it’s full.
Steps to Using a Tampon
Here are instructions on how to insert a tampon. You’ll want to relax. When you tense up your muscles, it makes inserting the tampon more difficult.
- Wash your hands before inserting the tampon to keep germs from getting inside your vagina.
- Get into a comfortable position where your knees are spread. You can sit on the toilet or put a leg on the side of the bathtub. Some people use a mirror as a visual guide the first few times they insert a tampon.
- Hold the tampon with your thumb and middle finger on the applicator. Keep your index finger on the end with the string.
- Insert the applicator into your vagina. If you feel like it isn’t going in, change the angle a little. If there is discomfort, then you probably need to insert the applicator even farther.
- Once the applicator is in, use your finger to push the cotton into your body.
- Remove the applicator.
- Leave the string hanging free. Some people also push the string into their labia, to hide it. But it can be more difficult to find the string if you do that.
- Put the applicator in the garbage.
- Wash your hands.
Most people don’t use any lubrication to insert the tampon, because the menstrual fluid provides lubrication. If you have issues inserting the tampon, you can try a little lube to help. It’s okay to urinate while wearing a tampon. You may get some pee on the string, which is normal. You can push the string out of the way while you use the bathroom but wash your hands before you do.
Removing Your Tampon
Tampons generally need to be changed every four to six hours, but it depends on your own flow. You shouldn’t leave a tampon in for longer than eight hours, because doing so increases your risk of toxic shock syndrome, a bacterial infection that can be serious. Organic cotton tampons reduce the risk of TSS.
When you’re ready to take the tampon out, wash your hands. To remove the tampon, simply pull the string to slide the tampon out of your body. Wrap it up and throw it away. Don’t flush it. Wash your hands again.
Tampons Offer Many Benefits
Tampons aren’t the only choice for menstrual care, so if you don’t enjoy using them, don’t worry. Keep in mind that you can swim in tampons. Tampons are very comfortable and convenient for active people with periods. If you experience pain while wearing a tampon, you should talk to your doctor. You shouldn’t feel a tampon once it’s been inserted. Shop for organic period products to manage your monthly flow.
