How to Know One is Ready to Start Using a Tampon

It is alright to start using tampons as soon as you start menstruating. Sometimes young girls think that they can not use a tampon if they are still a virgin, but this is not true. Your hymen has an opening in it that is large enough to allow the insertion of a tampon, even if you have never been sexually active. Begin using tampons as soon as you feel ready.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Use a hand-held mirror to look at your vagina and the opening where you need to insert the tampon. If you are particularly squeamish or this self-observation makes you uncomfortable, you might not be ready for tampon use.

2. Think about your feelings surrounding the use of menstrual pads. If using the pad does not bother you, there is no reason to rush into using tampons.

3. Consider your own level of maturity and responsibility. When you first start using tampons, it is hard to know when it is time to change them, and sometimes you can even forget that you have your period and there is a tampon in place. You need to be disciplined about changing your tampon at least 4 times a day. You should never leave a tampon in place for more than 8 hours at a time.

4. Talk to your mom, an aunt, a sister or another trusted adult woman about using tampons. She can explain to you how they are used and help you with your fears. Most people are nervous when they first start using tampons.

5. Buy a box of tampons. When you first start using them, it is best to choose tampons that are marked "slender" or "light day." Plastic applicators are easier to insert the first time than cardboard ones. Inside the box there are instructions for insertion. Read the instructions and listen to how you feel. If the insertion instructions scare you, it is alright to wait awhile before you start using them.

6. Practice inserting a tampon, following the directions from the package. The first time that you practice pick a day in the middle of your period instead of your first day or last day, this makes insertion easier. After you get used to tampons, you can use them on the first and last days. You should not be uncomfortable with a tampon in. If you feel discomfort or pain, remove the tampon and try again another time.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider alternating the use of tampons and pads. You might want to use a tampon during the day and a pad when you go to bed at night.
• New tampon users are often fearful about being able to remove the tampon. The string on the tampon should be left hanging outside of your body. Even if the string should work its way inside, your vagina is not deep enough to allow the tampon to get lost. Just relax and reach inside with your fingers to remove the tampon.
• If you experience dizziness, a high fever, diarrhea, vomiting, or develop a rash while using tampons, remove the tampon immediately and go see your doctor. Tampon use is linked to Toxic Shock Syndrome, which can be fatal.

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