Health
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are the Best Tips for Tampon Use?

Autumn Rivers
Autumn Rivers

Correct tampon use typically becomes easier as time goes on, but the first few times of wearing one can be difficult. It is important that each woman buy the best one for her situation, as the ideal type varies depending on both the menstrual flow and the amount of experience with this item. Once the tampon has been selected, it is important to be relaxed before inserting it, as this is often the only way to get it in correctly. Additionally, it is a good idea to leave it in for about four to eight hours at a time, as taking it out too early or too late can lead to some issues.

Choosing the right tampon can be hard for those who have never used one before. Such women are often advised to start out using the slim kind, as these are easiest to insert. Of course, since they are smaller, they are not usually as absorbent as the larger kind. For this reason, women who tend to have a heavy flow should choose heavy duty tampons once they are comfortable with tampon use. In addition, first time users of tampons should consider the kind with a plastic applicator, as this is often easier to insert than one with a cardboard applicator.

Both tampons and sanitary napkins should be changed regularly or at least every eight hours.
Both tampons and sanitary napkins should be changed regularly or at least every eight hours.

The first time using a tampon is often a challenge, but the best tip is to try to relax since it will go in easier this way. Getting into the correct position is also recommended for easy tampon use, with the best one often being sitting on the toilet. It is helpful to point the tip of the tampon toward the small of the back while inserting it, adding lubricant to it if it still resists going in comfortably. Of course, proper tampon use requires that women take their time both inserting and removing the device, as this can help avoid any discomfort.

In addition, it is important to keep the rules for safe tampon use in mind, whether or not it is the first time using this item. One of the most important guidelines is to remove the tampon within eight hours, as keeping it in longer than this can lead to leakage and even infection in rare cases. On the other hand, it is usually not necessary to change the tampon more frequently than every four hours unless it is a particularly heavy flow day. This is because it can be painful to remove a nearly dry tampon, and it can end up being a waste of money if this happens frequently.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Both tampons and sanitary napkins should be changed regularly or at least every eight hours.
      By: matka_Wariatka
      Both tampons and sanitary napkins should be changed regularly or at least every eight hours.