How to put in a tampon correctly

Started your period and want to try tampons? Here’s what you need to know about how to put in a tampon.

What is a tampon?

A tampon is a plug of soft material – usually compressed cotton wool – that you put into your vagina to absorb period blood. They come in different sizes so you can pick one depending on how heavy your period is.

Some have cardboard or plastic applicators that help you push the tampon into position; others are inserted just using your finger.

How do I insert a tampon?

You might think it’s obvious where to put a tampon, but it can be tricky the first time you use one, so don’t be put off if it takes several attempts.

“This may sound daft, but it’s good to know where your vagina is before you insert your first tampon,” says Lynn Hearton at fpa. “Have a look at the diagram in the instructions, it’s good to know where it’s going.”

First things first, don’t try to push a tampon ‘up’ you, like you’re shooting it up in the direction of your skull. Aim the tampon in the direction of the bottom of your spine rather than defying gravity. So back-and-up, instead of just ‘up’.

Try to relax and get into a comfortable position – this can be squatting, standing or sitting. Then, with washed hands, position the applicator or tampon inside your vagina and push with your index finger slowly. Leave the tampon string hanging out of your body so it’s easy to remove later.

“It may take some time to get it right – it won’t necessarily be right the first time. It takes practice,” says Lynn.

Use a small-sized tampon the first time – even if you have a heavy flow. Then build up to larger sizes as you get more comfortable.

Questions about periods? Check out our breakdown of period facts here.

Do tampons hurt?

Tampons shouldn’t hurt, but it can be difficult to insert and remove a tampon with a dry vagina, so only use one when you’re actually bleeding.

If inserted correctly, it shouldn’t be painful. “If it’s in and it’s uncomfortable, then it’s not in properly. You shouldn’t feel it once it’s in,” says Lynn.

How often should you change your tampon?

As a general guide, you should change your tampon every three to four hours. Unlike pads, you can’t tell how much blood’s been absorbed, so you’ll need to remember when it’s time to change it. Try not to leave it until it’s leaking into your knickers.

If you have heavy periods, you may need to change them more regularly.

How to remove a tampon

To remove a tampon, pull gently on the string at the end of the smaller tube.

Can I flush a tampon down the toilet?

You shouldn’t really – they’re bad for Mother Earth. And their size may make them seem flushable, but they can still cause problems with blocked toilets. It’s best to wrap it in toilet paper and throw it in the bin.

Can a tampon get lost inside you?

No – simply because there’s nowhere for it to go. The opening of the cervix (the top of your vagina) is just too tiny for a tampon to get through. It can’t travel to other parts of your body, like your stomach.

“The string is firmly joined to the tampon – it can’t go anywhere – and it’s really rare to get one stuck,” says Lynn. “Just make sure the string stays on the outside. It makes it easier to remove and you don’t have to go rummaging around.”

Can I use a high absorbency tampon all day?

No, it’s not ideal. It’s best to use a size that suits your flow and change them regularly. Inserting large tampons when you have light periods not only dries out your vagina, but also can be painful to remove. “You may need a selection for the duration of your period: heavy/regulars/minis. It’s about learning about your body,” says Lynn.

If you’re wondering why it hurts to push the plunger on your tampon when you need to take it out, it may mean that you are using too high of an absorbency for your flow. 

What is Toxic Shock Syndrome?

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is a rare but very dangerous kind of blood poisoning. It causes a sudden rush of symptoms that include: sudden high temperature, vomiting, diarrhoea, a sunburn-like rash, muscle aches, dizziness or fainting.

When people think of TSS, they often think of tampons, but you can also get it through wounds or surgery where bacteria has entered.

To prevent TSS, don’t use high absorbency tampons unless you need to. Leaving tampons in for too long can also cause TSS, so make sure you change them regularly.

Although rare, if you think you may have TSS, contact your GP immediately.

Will I lose my virginity if I use tampons?

No, using a tampon will not affect your virginity. This myth is connected to the old fashioned (and frankly sexist and heteronormative) belief that if you “break” your hymen then you’re no longer a virgin. Your hymen is like a collar of skin around your vaginal opening – sort of like a polo-neck jumper. It is NOT a layer of skin that covers the vagina that has to get ‘broken through’ to lose your virginity. It’s worth noting though that sex and using tampons, can stretch this collar of skin, making it wider and wearing the collar of skin away.

When and how you have sex for the first time can be defined by you and the lucky person you choose to sleep with, and you don’t need to call it “losing your virginity” at all if you don’t want to. To find out more, read our article.

Check out the rest of The Mix’s women’s health resources here.