How to use a tampon

If you’ve never used a tampon before, the thought of inserting one can be a bit scary at first. But don’t worry. Simply follow the steps below and you’ll soon realise there’s absolutely nothing to worry about.

How to use a non-applicator tampon

1. Wash your hands and unwrap the tampon. Hold the rounded end in one hand and twist and remove the cellophane from the cord end. Now pull the cord out, check the ends are knotted together and give it a little tug to make sure it’s secure. (If it isn’t, use another tampon). Position your finger on the cord end of the tampon and remove the upper piece of cellophane.
2. Relax and find yourself a comfy position, either sitting on the toilet or squatting with your knees apart.
3. With your free hand, open the folds of skin around the vagina and position the rounded end of the tampon into the vaginal opening. Push the tampon into the vagina using your index finger. Remember, the vagina slopes backwards so push the tampon towards the small of your back. If you can still feel the tampon it may not be inserted correctly, so use your index finger to push it a little further (don’t worry, it can’t get lost inside you). Now just make sure the cord is hanging outside your body ready for removal and wash your hands again.
4. To remove your tampon relax and gently pull the cord. If the tampon feels tightly held leave it a little longer, but ensure it’s changed at least every 4-8 hours. If the tampon still feels tightly held after this time, we suggest switching to a lighter absorbency tampon. The used tampon can be flushed away or wrapped securely and disposed of with normal household waste.

How to use an applicator tampon

1. Wash your hands and remove the tampon from the wrapper. Now relax and find yourself a comfortable position, either sitting on the toilet or squatting with your knees apart.
2. Remove the outer wrapper and pull the inner tube out until it comes to a stop at the bottom of the outer tube (it will feel a bit like a click). Next, hold the applicator with your thumb and middle finger at the grooved finger-grip section of the tampon. Make sure the removal cord is hanging outside the inner tube but don’t pull it.
3. Place the tip of the applicator into the vaginal opening and gently push it towards your lower back. Continue easing the applicator in until you've inserted it as far as the rim of the outer insertion tube. While still holding the finger-grip, use your index finger to gently push the inner tube into the outer tube of the applicator.
4. When the rings of the applicator are together, the tampon is inserted correctly.
5. Gently withdraw the applicator. The tampon should now be sitting comfortably inside you, with the removal cord hanging outside your body.
6. To remove your tampon, relax and gently pull the cord. If the tampon feels tightly held, leave it a little longer but ensure it’s changed at least every 4-8 hours. The tampon can be flushed away or wrapped securely and disposed of with normal household waste. Do not flush the outer wrapper or applicator tubes.