How To

How to Insert a Tampon

How to Insert a Tampon
Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(144 Ratings)

Find the most relaxed position for your body while inserting the tampon. Raising one of your legs on a footstool or on the rim of a toilet makes the process easier. Here's how to insert a tampon without any problems or discomfort.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Tampons
  • Vaseline
  1. Step 1

    Buy tampons that are appropriate to your menstrual flow: light, average or heavy.

  2. Step 2

    Wash your hands with soap and hot water.

  3. Step 3

    Remove the tampon from the wrapper.

  4. Step 4

    Slide the applicator a few inches into the vagina (tampon side in), but not so far that you can't hold the outer of the two tubes that make up the applicator.

  5. Step 5

    Push the inner tube into the outer tube, releasing the tampon into the vagina.

  6. Step 6

    Slide the applicator out.

  7. Step 7

    Make sure the tampon's string remains outside the vagina.

  8. Step 8

    Wrap the applicator in toilet paper and throw it away. Do not flush it down the toilet.

Tips & Warnings
  • Buy the lowest absorbency that works for you without leaking.
  • Insert the tampon gently; don't jam it in.
  • Wear a minipad or panty liner - not a tampon - during the lightest days of your period.
  • Tampon packages have directions inside. Read them if you need help.
  • Use a small amount of petroleum jelly if the tampon does not go in easily.
  • You shouldn't be able to feel the tampon in your body. If you can, you may not have inserted it far enough. Remove it and try again with a new tampon. Try inserting the applicator a little further into the vagina before pushing the inner tube of the applicator into the outer tube.
  • Change your tampon every 4 to 8 hours to avoid leakage.
  • To avoid toxic shock syndrome, do not keep the same tampon in for more than 8 hours.
  • If you have any questions or concerns, contact a physician or other health care professional before engaging in any activity related to health and diet. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

Comments  

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ecm1980 said

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on 5/1/2009 great article. Excellent for young girls to read when they want to start trying them.

dmobile said

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on 2/25/2009 Sorry I did not need to see this story! EW

guesswhat said

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on 2/20/2009 wife said somewhat helpful,we have to give ya "five though", great article.

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on 11/4/2008 http://www.viewmyviews.com

LynnG3 said

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on 10/17/2008 Always thought that if you were a virgin there would be no way to insert a tampon with ease. Not true!!!

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