Tampon Tips for Beginners
September 29 2022 | Written by Nadia Ladak (She/Her)
Let’s face it, the first time you try to use a tampon can be quite scary and uncomfortable. For many, it’s your first time learning more about your reproductive parts and understanding how they work. Once you get comfortable and understand how to use them safely, tampons can be amazing as they open up the door to so many new activities, such as swimming. Tampons are barely noticeable when inserted correctly, which allows you to go about your daily activities without much interference while on your period.
It may take some practice to put in a tampon for the first time. So, try to do it when you are not in a rush and have time to experiment. For example, maybe you’re on your period, it’s a Sunday, and you’re chilling at home all day watching movies in bed. (Brb, dreaming of a lazy Sunday…) Whether you’re putting in a tampon for the first time or you’re a parent helping your child use one for the first time, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite tips and tricks to make your first time inserting a tampon as smooth as possible.
1. Understand how to insert a tampon
If you’re new to using a tampon, you may need some help locating your vagina to see where your tampon will go in. We recommend using a hand-held mirror to help you during this process. We’ve also created a step by step guide to inserting a tampon that you can follow as well as an easy guide to your reproductive anatomy to understand what’s going on down there.
2. Use a light flow tampon
There are several different sizes of tampons depending on your flow. We actually wrote a blog about it: Tampons have sizes?. When you’re first starting to use a tampon, it is a good idea to start with a light size tampon, the most slender-size of tampons, which may make insertion less daunting. After 4 hours, if the tampon is fully saturated with blood, you can move up to a regular size tampon.
Why is this so important? Figuring out the best size tampon for your flow will help you 1) reduce your risk of contracting Toxic Shock Syndrome, 2) reduce your risk of any leakage, 3) prevent the oh-so-uncomfortable removal of a dry tampon. Basically, the correct tampon size = maximum safety & comfort!
3. Use an applicator style tampon
Some individuals find using an applicator-style tampon easier, especially one with a rounder top. The applicator helps to gently guide the tampon into your vagina and minimises the chance of getting any blood on your hands and thus your clothes.
Note: if you prefer tampons without an applicator, that’s totally fine! Use what fits your needs best.
4. Use lubricant!
To make a tampon easier to insert, try using a lubricant! This makes the process a lot smoother as the lubricant helps the tampon glide in. At Marlow, we’ve created a lubricant designed specifically for tampons. Our bottle has a cross slit valve at the top allowing you to evenly coat your tampon with just one dip. It’s travel size and completely safe to use!
5. Ensure the tampon is deep enough!
A tampon should hardly be noticeable once inserted. After it is inserted, try walking around a bit to test its position. If you can feel the tampon, it may not be inserted deep enough. If it doesn’t feel comfortable, you can try using your fingers to push it up a little further. If that doesn’t work, or if you’re not comfortable using your fingers, consider removing it and re-inserting a new tampon. If you’ve tried a few times and are in any considerable pain or discomfort, stop using tampons and speak to your doctor about what you’re experiencing. You can also check out our blog 5 Reasons Why Your Tampon May Hurt.
Wrap-Up
With these tips, we hope that your first time using a tampon is as smooth as possible. For more tips on all things periods, check out our blog: The Ultimate Guide to Your First Period.