I'm 15 years old and wear pads all the time because I can't seem to insert a tampon. It's becoming stressful because I'm on the track team and sometimes we do swimming exercises. I even had to fake being sick on one of the days because it was my time of the month. I've read so many articles in magazines on how to put them in, and I've looked at diagrams, but it does not help. One time when I got one in, I nearly passed out because I went into "panic mode," worrying that it wasn't in right. What can I do? Help me, please!
—Anonymous, 15
You are far from the only person who has had a hard time using a tampon, so don't feel bad. It seems tricky, but you will get the hang of it, and someday using tampons will be easy for you. As you pointed out, part of the problem is that you get all freaked out, which is not helpful, because your muscles tense when you're anxious, including the muscles of your vaginal wall. It's almost impossible to put in a tampon then! Even though it might be tough for you, try to relax, or at the very least, take some slow, deep, calming breaths before you try to put in a tampon so your body will recognize that it's time to relax. Some other tips to make the process a bit smoother:
*Try inserting a tampon when you're having a heavier flow. It will be easier to insert than on a day when you're just spotting lightly.
*Use a very thin tampon, and one with a closed, rounded tip. Try Tampax brand's Satin Teen Lites, which are specifically meant for first-time users like yourself. Or try Playtex Slimfits Tampons, which are that brand's slimmest version and also good for first-time users.
* Lots of people suggest putting one leg up on a toilet seat to insert a tampon, but our suggestion is to go into your bathroom at home and lay down on the floor on a clean towel. (Trying to use a tampon for the first time at school is too tricky.) Take deep breaths and try to relax. There is no rush! Then put your feet on the floor, your knees up and apart. Clasp the tampon around the center, and hold it at a slight downward angle, like you are aiming for the small of your back. Insert it slowly up to your fingers, then depress the applicator so the tampon is inserted in your body. You'll know it's in properly because you won't be able to feel it when you're standing up and walking around. If you're uncomfortable or in pain, then it's not in properly. In that case, gently remove the tampon using the string, and try again later. It may take a few tries to get the hang of it.
*Oh, one more thing: Some people find that placing a little bit of lubrication, such as KY jelly, on the tampon tip makes it easier to insert.
*Don't forget to read the material included with the tampons. It will give you key information, including how often you need to change them.
Good luck, and try not to worry. It will happen, with practice!
—Andrea Pyros
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