How to Use a Tampon: 14 Steps (with Pictures)

2024 Author: Samantha Chapman | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-01-15 13:47

If you have just started your first period, you will most likely need to start putting on pads. These products are simple to use, much more so than the internal ones. The operation might intimidate you a bit because you have to wear tampons the right way, otherwise the choice of wearing a pair of white pants to impress that guy you like so much will backfire. Avoid all "accidents", problems and worries by reading this article.

Steps

Part 1 of 3: Put on the tampon

Step 1. Choose the right tampon for you in terms of thickness, absorbency, shape and design

There are about 3.5 billion women in the world and so there are a myriad of options to meet different needs. Here are some general tips to help you choose:

• Thickness. The lighter the bleeding, the thinner the absorbent can be. However, the absorbency of these products has improved dramatically in recent years. This means that even the thinnest models are able to hold a lot of liquid. All of this makes them much more comfortable to wear and you can even forget they are there.
• Absorbency. Look for absorbency level (light, medium or heavy flows) and length, which are usually described on the package. Try several different brands and models before choosing the one that's right for you. Sometimes the concept of "absorbency" varies slightly between different manufacturers and between different people.
• Shape. There are many items of underwear and for this there are sanitary pads of various shapes! The three main categories, however, are represented by products for normal panties, for thongs and sanitary pads for the night. The purpose of the latter model is quite clear, it is a longer absorbent suitable for the lying posture, but the other two categories? First, remember that wearing a thong while menstruating is asking for trouble. You can give it a try, but if you're struggling with your first periods you should stick to pads for regular panties.

• Style. Again there are two groups: with or without wings. The "wings" are actually two adhesive side flaps that adhere to the panties. They are designed to prevent the pad from sliding to the side and transmitting the feeling of a "baby diaper". In other words, wings are your allies, unless they irritate the groin.

  • Generally speaking, you should avoid scented models, especially if you have sensitive skin. The fragrances used can irritate an area that shouldn't be.
  • There are also panty liners, but they are completely different products. You should wear them when you think your period is about to start or when it is over, when the flow is very light.

  

  Step 2. Get in the right position

  Most girls change their tampons when they go to the bathroom, but sometimes it is necessary to do so regardless of physiological needs. Regardless, look for the nearest restrooms, wash your hands, and proceed. Unfortunately, the tampon doesn't magically place itself in your panties, so you have to rely on science.

  It is best to sit on the toilet by lowering the panties to the height of the knees. You can also stand up if you wish, but make sure that you can reach the panties by extending one arm

  

  Step 3. Remove the tampon from its wrapper or box

  You can discard the package, but it's worth using it to wrap the used tampon you're changing. Nobody likes to see a dirty sanitary napkin in the waste pail. Also, never throw it in the toilet, as it could clog the drains and flushing the toilet would drain the water out of the toilet!

  

  Step 4. Unfold the wings, or side flaps, and peel off the long center film covering the sticky side

  Also expose the adhesive on the wings and throw the film in the trash (no need to wrap it).

  Some brands have made sanitary napkins whose wrapping also acts as a protective film for the adhesive. This solution is simpler, environmentally friendly and saves you some work

  

  Step 5. Stick the sticky part to the underwear

  The tampon must be exactly under the vagina and not too far forward or backward! If you know that you will need to lie down for a while, then you should line up the tampon slightly further back, but in general it is always best to leave it where it can best perform its function. It is best to learn quickly to center the tampon in the right place!

  Does your model have wings? Remember to fold them around the sides of the panties so that they stick under the gusset. This will prevent the pad from moving and will ensure greater comfort and a more natural feel

  Part 2 of 3: Wear the Sanitary Pad Comfortably

  

  Step 1. Put on your panties as usual

  At this point you are done! If the tampon makes your skin itchy or irritated, remove it and replace it with a different model. Using sanitary pads shouldn't be a problem. You will be able to check if it needs to be changed when you go to the bathroom next time or if there are problems with absorbency. Change it every few hours to avoid unpleasant odors.

  It is appropriate to reiterate the concept: change the tampon every few hours. Obviously the frequency is also determined by the abundance of the flow. However, if you change it often, you will not only feel calmer, but will also prevent bad smells from getting worse. Get two great results with a single gesture!

  

  Step 2. Wear comfortable clothes

  Although it feels a bit strange at first, be aware that the tampon is usually invisible. It is designed to follow the curves of the body and will be well hidden. Regardless, you may feel more comfortable wearing loose pants or skirts. It's all about psychological serenity! If you are worried about getting dirty or the pad showing, choose your clothing carefully.

  As a general rule, know that "grandma's knickers", ie high-waisted and comfortable knickers, are worth wearing when you have your period. Save the fancy thongs for the other 25 days of the month

  

  Step 3. Remember to check the "situation" often, especially on days when the flow is heavier

  In a short time you will be able to judge for yourself when to change, how long you can keep a tampon and by the time you start to feel some discomfort you will know exactly why. However, you should get regular checkups in the first few periods, especially if your blood flow is heavy. By investing some time right away, you'll avoid embarrassing situations later on.

  But be aware that it is not necessary to run to the bathroom every half hour. Just check your tampon every one or two hours. If someone asks about your frequent visits to the bathroom, tell them that you have drunk a lot of water

  

  Step 4. Do not use sanitary pads if there is no reason

  Some women wear them every day in the belief that it allows them to stay "fresh". Nothing more wrong. The vagina needs to breathe! Keeping a thick layer of sticky cotton between your legs allows bacteria to proliferate thanks to the heat. For this reason, if you are not menstruating, stick to cotton panties. There is nothing fresher, of course if they are clean!

  

  Step 5. Change your tampon if it makes you feel uncomfortable

  For the record, tampons aren't a girl's best friend. That said, however, it must be admitted that technology has come a long way and thankfully you won't be forced to wear the bulky diaper-like pads your mother used to use (no joke, try asking her). This product isn't that bad anymore, so if you feel really uncomfortable, change it. It may have shifted, be saturated, or smelly, or it just isn't the right model, size, or shape for you.

  Part 3 of 3: Change the tampon, throw it away and become an expert

  

  Step 1. Change the tampon after about 4 hours

  This process must be repeated several times! Even if it's not completely dirty, change it anyway. Don't worry, the tampon won't be "offended" by being thrown away earlier than expected. The new one, on the other hand, will guarantee you a good smell and a feeling of freshness. For this reason, get a new one, go to the bathroom and do what you have to do!

  

  Step 2. Dispose of the used sanitary napkin properly

  When replacing, wrap the used one in the packaging for the new one. If you have finished your period or don't have a wrapper to put the tampon in, then you can use toilet paper. In the end, discreetly put it in the trash can without leaving any traces. Don't leave harassing pictures in the bathroom!

  Do not throw anything other than toilet paper in the toilet. The sewage system is not a magical system that instantly vaporizes everything you throw into it, but leads your waste somewhere. For this reason, behave responsibly and do not flush the external or internal sanitary pads (and nothing else that is not intended for it) into the toilet

  

  Step 3. Observe proper hygiene practices

  Menstruation is not the easiest time for a woman to cleanse, which is why it is essential to respect all precautions. Always wash your hands very well when changing sanitary pads and clean yourself carefully (intimate wet wipes are very useful for this). The better the level of hygiene and the lower the amount of germs, consequently health is safeguarded.

  Remember that you don't have to be disgusted with menstruation. It is the symbol of your femininity, a perfectly normal, monthly and somewhat annoying event. You have to respect the rules of hygiene to be clean and not because menstruation is disgusting

  

  Step 4. Always carry spare pads with you

  You never know when the situation can get out of hand; the flow may be more abundant than normal or it may show up when you don't expect it. Sometimes a friend may need your help. Just like the "Young Scouts" you have to be prepared for any eventuality!

  • If you are in the bathroom, you notice that your period has started and you don't have a tampon with you, don't hesitate to ask another girl. Be kind, but don't be fearful and ask her if she has one to give you. Any woman will be happy to help you!
  • You should also have painkillers designed specifically for menstrual cramps with you at all times.

  Advice

  • If your period starts suddenly, remember to remove the bloodstains with cold water and never with hot water.
  • Bring a spare pad or pads with you. You can discreetly hide them in an inside pocket of your handbag, backpack, or make-up bag, depending on what you usually use to carry your things. The first few periods are quite irregular, so it pays to always have a sanitary pad on hand.
  • When using sanitary pads, wear regular panties and not a thong.
  • Choose the pads that come with wet wipes, this way the genital area will always be fresh and clean. Make sure they are fragrance-free and antibacterial active ingredients, so you won't irritate sensitive skin. Do not use douches as they can lead to yeast infections.
  • If your period starts suddenly and you don't have sanitary pads with you, use toilet paper, but remember to change it every hour or two.
  • If you are not ready to use tampons yet, use external tampons. No matter what your friends say, it's basically your body and not theirs; make your own decisions that affect him.
  • Waste a sanitary napkin or two. Do exactly what you see in the ads and pour water over them to check their absorbency. There is no need to buy blue food coloring, but at least this way you will feel safer knowing the characteristics of the product you have chosen.
  • Consider using tampons. Many women prefer them during physical activity or in general to avoid bad odors and discomfort.
  • If you don't like the smell of unscented pads, use scented pads.

  Warnings

  • Never dispose of internal or external pads in the toilet. Throw them in the garbage can.
  • Don't be afraid to use tampons! They don't hurt when inserted correctly. It may take several tries before you can get them right, but in the end they will definitely be more comfortable than the external ones. Pads get damaged and move out of the way while you sleep at night.