Reviewed by Dr Monica Rosen, Gynecologist & Clinical Associate Professor, University of Michigan
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This is common when you're learning!
It may happen because your muscles are tense, the angle is off, or the tampon isn't aimed toward your lower back.
Tampons have a learning curve!
Most people don't get it right on the first try, and that doesn't mean anything is wrong with you!
A few small adjustments can make insertion more comfortable and easier!
Try this next...
Pause and take a deep breath...
Relax your muscles as much as possible!
Aim the tampon toward your lower back, not straight up.
Try a different position, like sitting, squatting, or standing.
Do not force it.
If it doesn't feel right, stop and try again later with a fresh tampon!
When your body is tense, it may be harder to insert a tampon.
Take a deep breath, relax your muscles, and give yourself time!
If you feel frustrated, pause and try again later!
People insert tampons in different ways.
Some sit, some squat, and some stand.
Try the position that feels most comfortable and gives you the most control!
When inserting your tampon, aim toward your lower back-not directly up.
The vagina angles back, so changing the direction can make a big difference!
When using a tampon for the first time, choose a day when your flow is heavy!
A heavier flow makes it easier for the tampon to comfortably slide into your body!
If your period is light, insertion may be uncomfortable because of dryness.
If it doesn't feel right, take out the tampon and try again with a fresh one later!
If you repeatedly can't insert a tampon or feel significant pain, contact a healthcare professional for guidance.
Stay calm, relax your muscles, and gently pull the string downward—do not force it.
If you still can't remove the tampon or feel significant pain, contact a healthcare professional for help.
Is it normal to struggle inserting a tampon? Yes! Tampons have a learning curve, and many people need a few tries.
What angle should I use? Aim the tampon toward your lower back, not straight up.
Should I force a tampon in? No! If it hurts or doesn't feel right, stop and try again later or ask a healthcare professional.
If tampon insertion feels tricky, you're not alone!
Tampax is here with simple, step-by-step guidance to help first-time users feel more comfortable! Try a Tampax Starter Kit today with how-to-use step by step instructions on the box AND wrapper!
