Paper or plastic. Some tampons have a cardboard applicator (paper), while others have a plastic applicator. The paper applicator has the benefit of mostly being flushable, but you may not want to take your chances if you have an unreliable plumbing system. Some people say that plastic is also a bit easier to use. You can try both and decide what you like best. Applicator or no applicator. Most tampons are sold with applicators, while others are not. When you’re starting off, it’s much easier to use tampons with applicators so you have more control over the process. The tampons without applicators require you to push the tampon up in your vagina with your fingers, which can be a bit more of a challenge. The upside of these tampons is that they are super small, so you can even keep them in your pocket, if necessary. Absorbency. The most common types of tampons are either “regular” or “super absorbent”. It’s generally recommended that you start with regular tampons to get the hang of using them before you move on to the super ones. They are a bit bigger, though they aren’t necessarily harder to use. You can also use regular tampons first, when your flow isn’t as heavy, and then switch to more absorbent tampons, depending on your flow, or vice versa. Many packs of tampons come with some regular, and some super absorbency tampons, so you can mix and match.
Some people want to know if they can practice using tampons when they aren’t on their period. While nothing horrible will happen if you do this, it’ll be harder to insert the tampon into the vagina, and you may want to wait until your actual period begins. Though asking your mom or your Aunt for help may be the last thing on earth you want to do, if you try it on your own and really have a hard time, or if you’re just afraid to try it, don’t be afraid to ask a trusted female for some help.
Though it’s natural to be nervous, you should try to relax as much as you can. The more relaxed you are, the easier it will be to insert the tampon.
Some people recommend that you use your other hand to open your labia, which are the folds of skin around the vaginal opening. This can help you position the tampon in the opening. However, some people are able to insert a tampon without this additional help.
When you have the tampon in, you should be able to run, hike, bike, swim, or participate in any physical activity you want to do.
If your tampon string is wet with menstrual fluid, then it’s time to change your tampon. If the tampon still feels difficult to remove and a bit “stuck,” then it’s because it hasn’t absorbed enough menstrual fluid yet. If it’s been less than eight hours, then you should try again later. Try using a tampon with a lighter absorbency next time, if there is one. If you leave your tampon in for longer than 8 hours, you may get Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), which is a very rare but potentially deadly consequence of leaving in your tampon for too long. If you’ve left a tampon in for longer than recommended and experience a fever, a rash, or vomiting, get help immediately.
Use a pantyliner for an extra day if you feel that your period may not be completely over yet.
