Tampons are small sticks of absorbent material that you put inside your vagina. Tampons collect the blood from your period before it can get outside your body. As the tampon gets wet, it expands to fill your vagina and blocks off any leaks. Many girls like tampons because you can't feel them when you're wearing them, and you can practically forget that you're having your period, which is never a bad thing!
Are there different kinds of tampons?
All tampons are the same basic size and shape. Super and super-plus tampons are designed for your days of heaviest flow. They tend to be thicker because they're made with more absorbent material. All tampons have a string attached. The string hangs outside your vagina. You take out the tampon by pulling on the string.
Many women use different tampons on different days. Some tampons come in packages with ones for light days and ones for heavy days.
How do I put in a tampon?
Most tampons come with applicators. The tampon sits inside a cardboard or plastic tube that's about twice as long as the tampon itself. The tampon is at the top end of the applicator, and the string falls through the bottom end. The applicator is made of two pieces. When you push the bottom piece up, the tampon comes out the top. Tampons are individually wrapped in paper.
Here are the steps to putting in a tampon:
- Sit on the toilet with your legs spread. Or you can stand and raise one leg to rest it on a toilet or bathtub.
- Remove the tampon from the wrapper.
- Put the applicator into your vagina. The tampon is on top and the string is hanging out the bottom. Slide the applicator into your vagina a little more than halfway. You want the tampon to end up at the top of your vagina, not at the bottom near the outside.
- When the applicator is in the right position, push the bottom part of it into the top part. This pushes the tampon out the top of the applicator and into your vagina. Gently pull the applicator out of your vagina, letting the tampon string hang down outside your body. The applicator is not supposed to be left inside your vagina. Throw the applicator into the trash. Don't flush it down the toilet because it can clog the toilet.
It does feel funny the first few times you use tampons. It may take a bit of practice to decide how far in you should put the applicator. You know you've done it right when you can't feel the tampon in place.
How often should I change a tampon?
You should change your tampon every time you use the bathroom or if it starts to leak. Don't leave a tampon in for more than 4 to 6 hours.
How do I take a tampon out?
It's easy. Pull slightly upward on the string and pull it out. You can then wrap it in toilet paper and throw it in the trash. In many public restrooms and private houses, you can't flush a tampon down the toilet because it will clog the toilet and cause it to overflow. It's better to play it safe and always throw the tampon in the trash.
What if I can't find the tampon string?
If you can't find the string, you can still get the tampon out. Just put your fingers into your vagina, grasp the bottom edge of the tampon and tug on it gently to pull it out.
Can a tampon get lost inside me?
A tampon will never get lost. It's always just in your vagina. It won't travel to another part of your body.
What if I can't find the tampon I put in?
If you're really afraid the tampon is stuck, or is so far up your vagina that you can't reach it, call your health professional. He or she can remove the tampon for you.
Where can I get tampons?
You can buy tampons at any drugstore or supermarket.
Can I use tampons if I am a virgin?
Yes, you can use tampons if you're a virgin. Although your vaginal opening may be partly covered by the hymen, there will be enough room for a tampon. You can only lose your virginity by having sexual intercourse.
Tampons come in different sizes. Try one labeled "slim" or one that says it's for teenagers. They tend to be thinner and may feel more comfortable inside you.
What is toxic shock syndrome?
Toxic shock syndrome is an illness that can be related to using tampons. A tampon in your vagina is warm and filled with bloody fluid. It's the perfect place for bacteria to grow. If you don't change your tampon every 4 to 6 hours, it can become a breeding place for the bacteria that cause toxic shock syndrome.
Toxic shock syndrome is rare, but it's smart to do these things to help prevent you from getting it:
