Your choice of sanitary protection should suit your lifestyle - many women choose tampons because they're discreet and comfortable to use.
What is a tampon?
A tampon is a roll of cotton and/or rayon fibres, which is worn inside the vagina, absorbing the flow internally. They have a cord running through them, which hang outside the body, so that the tampon can easily be removed when you need to change it. The muscles of your vagina hold the tampon in place so don't worry about it falling out, and if inserted properly you can't feel it at all.
Tampons are available with or without an applicator:
A non-applicator tampon is wrapped in a clear material, which needs to be removed first. Then you simply insert the tampon with your finger, which helps you to position it correctly. Click here for instructions on inserting a non-applicator tampon.
Applicator tampons are tampons that are pre-inserted in a applicator. The applicator is usally made from plastic or card and is made up of two tubes that you use to guide the tampon into the correct position. Click here for instructions on inserting an applicator tampon.
Tampons are available in a range of different absorbencies because your flow can change over the course of your period. It is important to use the correct absorbency for your flow. Most people find that their flow changes throughout the month. It is important to consider your flow pattern when choosing sanitary protection. The table below shows how the flow can change throughout your period.
If you’re discussing this subject with your daughter, or a young relative or friend view our animation on Lil-lets girls, for a more visual demonstration of how to insert a tampon.