Tampons: A Beginner's Guide to Getting Started

Tampons can seem a little scary the first time you think about them, but here's a secret: lots of girls find they love them once they've practised a bit. Let's walk through it together, gently and at your own pace.

What are tampons?

Tampons are small, soft, cylinder-shaped products that go inside your vagina to soak up period blood before it leaves your body.

When to try one

There's no rule about the "right" time! Many girls try tampons when:

• They want to swim during their period.
• They're playing sports or being active.
• They feel comfortable with their body.
• They simply feel ready.

The different types

By absorbency

• Light: for lighter days, and a great place for beginners to start.
• Regular: for an average flow.
• Super: for heavier days.
• Super plus: for a very heavy flow.

By applicator

• Plastic applicator: smooth and easy, often the easiest for beginners.
• Cardboard applicator: kinder to the planet, but a little less smooth.
• No applicator: you gently insert it with your finger.

How to insert a tampon

1. Wash your hands: always start clean.
2. Get comfortable: sit on the toilet, stand with one foot up on the edge, or squat.
3. Relax!: tensing up makes it harder, so take a slow breath.
4. Hold the applicator at the grip (the middle section).
5. Gently insert the tip into your vagina, angled toward your lower back.
6. Push the plunger to release the tampon inside.
7. Slide out the applicator: the tampon stays put.
8. Leave the string hanging outside so you can remove it later.

Tips for first-timers

If it hurts

• You might be a little tense, take a few deep breaths.
• Try a slightly different angle.
• Make sure it's inserted far enough in.
• Try a smaller size or one with a smooth applicator.

If you can feel it

• It's probably not in quite far enough.
• Gently push it in a bit more with your finger.
• If it's still uncomfortable, take it out and start fresh.

If you can't find the string

• Don't panic, it's still there!
• Bear down gently (like you're going to the bathroom).
• Reach in and feel around carefully; you'll find it.

Important safety rules

1. Change every 4 to 8 hours, never leave one in longer than 8 hours.
2. Use the lowest absorbency that does the job.
3. One tampon at a time: always remove the old one first.
4. Don't flush them: wrap and pop in the bin.
5. Know about TSS: a rare but serious infection (more on that below).

A quick word on TSS

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is very rare, but it's worth knowing the signs. Take your tampon out and tell a trusted adult right away if you have a sudden high fever, vomiting or diarrhoea, dizziness or fainting, or a rash that looks like sunburn.

Remember

It might take a few goes before tampons feel easy, and that's completely normal, lots of girls practise several times before it clicks. Be patient and kind to yourself; you've got this, and Sosô is cheering you on. 💛