How to Insert a Tampon

Will it hurt to put in a tampon?

There’s no question it can feel “strange,” especially if this is your first time inserting a tampon. The good news is that it doesn’t have to hurt because YOU are totally in control. If it’s hurting, there are things you can do to make it more comfortable. Keep reading!

Tips on how to insert a tampon

Step 1: Wash your hands.

Your vagina isn’t dirty, but clean hands are healthier for everyone! It’s always smart to wash your hands with soap and water before and after you insert a tampon.

Step 2: Get to know your tampon.

Unwrap your tampon and make sure you know how it works! If you’ve never really looked at a tampon, it can look intimidating, but the tampon (what actually protects you from leaks) is INSIDE the applicator. It may look small, but tampons can offer up to 100% leak fee protection (just like pads)! The applicator makes it easy to get the tampon into your vagina. Some applicators are plastic; some are cardboard; both can be used safely! The applicator has a larger, outer tube that holds the tampon, a “grip” area where you’ll hold it, and a smaller tube at the end with the string coming out. The smaller tube is actually a “pusher” that you use to push the tampon out when it’s time. Check out this diagram of a Tampax Pearl tampon to see each component.

If you’re using a Tampax Compact tampon (which is in a smaller, compact package), you’ll have to pull the plunger out until it “clicks” to make it work. If you don’t hear the click, the plunger won’t work to release the tampon.

Step 3: Get to know your body.

We know you know it’s “down there,” but so many women have never really looked closely to be sure. So, now’s your chance. Grab a mirror and take a look to make sure you’re familiar with your vaginal opening where the tampon will go.

Step 4: Get comfy and ready to put the tampon in.

Find a comfortable position that lets you relax and still reach your vagina. Most of us will sit on the toilet or stand while slightly squatting to insert a tampon, but you can also try lying down or propping one foot on a step or other raised surface (ex. the edge of your tub). The most important thing is to take a deep breath and relax all those muscles “down there.” If you squeeze your butt or the muscles around the vagina, it will not be as easy to insert the tampon.

Step 5: Set the tip.

Hold the tampon at the grip (the smaller part right above the plunger) and place the tip of the tampon at your vaginal opening.

Step 6: Use the right angle.

Once the tip is in place, aim the tampon toward your lower back, not straight up. Your vagina doesn’t go straight up into your body, it actually has a slight angle. Finding the angle that’s right for you can help make it feel more comfortable to insert, too.

Step 7: Tip to grip.

Now you’re ready. Slowly insert the tampon applicator from the tip, all the way to the grip. When you’ve inserted it far enough, your fingers on the grip will probably be touching your vulva (the external opening of your vagina).

Step 8: Press the "Pusher"

Once you’ve inserted tip to grip, it’s time to use your pointer finger or the other hand to push the plunger all the way and release the tampon.

Step 9: Remove the applicator.

After you’ve pushed the pusher in all the way, pull the applicator out. The string will be the only thing left sticking out of your vagina. TA DA! You did it! Once you’ve inserted the tampon inside you, you’re done. Keep reading to learn how to remove the tampon.

How to remove your tampon

Now that you know how to insert a tampon, it's time to learn how to remove a tampon. When it's time to remove your tampon, first wash your hands. Next, get in a comfortable position, relax your body and use your hands to locate the tampon string. Next, you'll use your thumb and finger to grip the string and pull it slowly out of your vagina. We know it’s tempting, but please do not flush your tampon. Properly dispose of your tampon in the trash. After you have removed the tampon, remember to wash your hands.

How do I know when it's time to change my tampon?

Unlike a pad, a tampon is worn inside your body, which means you can't see if it's full and ready to change. Tampons can be worn for up to 8 hours. There are a few ways you can check if it's time to remove:

1. Check the tampon string. If there's blood on the string, it's likely time to change!
2. Do a wipe check. Take a piece of toilet paper and wipe like you would after using the restroom. If there is blook on the toilet paper, it's time to change!
3. Go ahead and remove the tampon. If it is dry and unsaturated, that's a sign you can go a little longer on the next tampon before changing.

IF YOU’RE STILL HAVING TROUBLE

Tampons have a learning curve -- most people don't get it right on the first try! If you gave them a shot and it didn't feel quite right, here are some helpful tips that can help make tampons more comfortable and easier to use:

1. Try to relax your muscles "down there" as much as possible. When your body is tense, it may be harder to insert a tampon.
2. If your tampon is uncomfortable and makes you feel like you need to waddle, it likely needs to a little deeper. If that happens, just use your finger to push the tampon further in, and that usually fixes it!
3. People insert their tampons in different ways. Some people sit, some squat, and some stand. Try out the position that feels most comfortable for you. If you're still having trouble, we suggest trying the Tampax Starter Kit for an easy first tampon trial. It comes with step-by-step instructions (even on the wrapper) and two absorbencies for your changing flow.