Among the countless advances in the female universe, one of the things created to make women’s lives easier in a practical and hygienic way is the internal tampon.

What is an Internal Tampon

An internal tampon is a method used to absorb menstrual flow internally, inside the vagina. It’s made from soft materials pressed together into a cylinder-like shape1. This design is specially developed so it can be easily inserted into the vaginal opening. The internal tampon retains the menstrual flow, or blood, before it has a chance to leave the body. They have a string attached for easy removal and sometimes a applicator that allows the tampon to be placed more easily.

Applicators

Applicators are made of plastic or cardboard, and their design is similar to a syringe: a small tube slides into a larger tube (where the tampon is located) and pushes it into the vagina. Tampons that do not include an applicator are called digital tampons and are simply unwrapped and pushed inside the vagina with a finger. They are smaller to carry, but require a bit more effort to insert.

What Size Tampon Should I Use

If it’s your first time, ideally you should choose the smallest tampon (mini or medium). After you get used to the process, you can use the higher-absorption ones, but these tampons are generally bigger in size as well. It’s easier to insert when your menstrual flow is moderate or heavy, as this allows the tampon to slide in more easily. Another tip is to apply a little intimate lubricant to the tip of the tampon to make insertion easier.

Important: The most important thing is to use the tampon according to your menstrual flow. Do not use a larger or more absorbent tampon for a light flow, and only use it when you are menstruating.

I’m nervous! What should I do to make inserting the tampon easier?

There isn’t much secret to inserting a tampon, just follow the instructions inside the box. Before you start, try to relax. When you are nervous, your muscles tense up, which makes insertion much harder. Knowing a bit about your body also helps. It’s a good idea to use a mirror to see your vulva or external area, which is the part on the outside of the female genital organ2. The urethra is where urine exits, the anus is at the back, and between them is the vaginal opening. This is where you should insert the tampon. It is normal to feel nervous the first time you use a tampon, but with time and practice it becomes extremely easy.

How to insert a tampon without an applicator?

The way to insert a tampon isn’t a mystery, but for some women it may be a bit tricky at first. Using an applicator is exactly for this reason – to make insertion easier – but if you don’t have one, follow these tips to succeed without any issues.

  • Wash your hands with soap and water. With dry hands, unwrap the tampon. If you drop the tampon on the floor, throw it away immediately and start over with a new one. The tampon must be completely sealed in plastic. If not, do not use it; grab another and unwrap it with clean hands.
  • Follow the instructions on the box
  • Pull the string to make sure it is firmly attached to the tampon.
  • Sit or get into a comfortable position. Some women prefer to put one leg on the toilet seat or the edge of the tub, while others prefer to squat or lie down. Once you find a comfortable position, hold the tampon between your thumb and index finger, and make sure the string is visible.
  • With your other hand, open the labia (the folds of skin around the vaginal opening) and position the tampon at the vaginal opening.
  • Gently push the tampon inside the opening, angling it towards your lower back.
  • Once the tampon is inside, use your middle finger to push it further. Your finger should be inserted almost entirely into the vaginal canal.
  • Make sure the string is outside your vaginal opening. Later, when you’re ready to remove it, hold the string and gently pull it downward until the tampon comes out completely.
  • Don’t forget to wash your hands before and after inserting or removing a tampon.

If the tampon is inserted correctly, you should not feel any discomfort. If you do feel uncomfortable, the tampon may have been inserted incorrectly or is not deep enough in the vagina. If this happens, just remove the tampon and start over with a new one. Remember that practice makes perfect. If you don’t succeed the first time, the second attempt will probably go much better. Instead of getting frustrated and giving up, relax and try again!

And if I still can’t succeed?

If you can’t insert a tampon after several tries, schedule an appointment with your gynecologist. One reason women can’t insert a tampon is that virgins may be born with a very small opening in the hymen, which makes tampon insertion impossible. This happens in about 2% of teenage girls and can be a problem. Another cause could be vaginismus (involuntary contraction of the pelvic muscles) which does not allow for proper tampon insertion.

Can I go to the pool or beach using a tampon?

Absolutely! If you learn how to use it correctly, a tampon can be a great ally. The recommendation is that when you are at the beach or in a pool, you don’t go beyond the recommended changing time. Otherwise, you can use that swimsuit or bikini without fear.

Important: The time of use must be followed strictly, not just to avoid leaks, but also to prevent infection due to prolonged use.

Risks of Incorrect Tampon Use

Incorrect use of a tampon can cause some problems, including toxic shock syndrome. Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is a rare disease, but it can be fatal if not detected in time, and is mainly associated with tampon use3. The tampon itself doesn’t cause TSS; the main culprit is the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus, which, when in direct contact with the body, starts producing toxins. What happens is that, since their creation, tampons have changed their composition. From natural ingredients like cotton, brands started using synthetic ingredients like plastic, carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), and rayon. These synthetic fibers, used to increase absorbency, create an ideal environment for bacterial growth.

How to Reduce the Risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome

  • Be careful when inserting a tampon. Wash your hands before inserting or removing it. Take care that your nails are not too long or uneven to avoid injuring your skin.
  • Change your tampon every 4 to at most 6 hours.
  • Choose the correct absorbency. Use a smaller tampon when your flow is light. TSS happens more often when maximum-absorption tampons are used. Don’t use these unless your flow is very heavy.
  • Alternate between internal and external pads. Try using external pads at night and internal ones during the day.
  • Don’t use a tampon to absorb anything other than menstrual flow. Only insert when menstrual blood is present.

The symptoms of TSS can be similar to flu, so pay attention if you feel “flu-like” while on your period and using a tampon – these symptoms could be a sign of TSS. Otherwise, it could mean there is another infection. In any case, see a doctor.

Symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome

The symptoms of TSS can occur suddenly, during menstruation.

  • Be aware of these, as not all need to be present at the same time.
  • Flu-like symptoms (muscle aches, headache, redness of
  • the eyes, mouth, and throat)
  • Sudden high fever (39°C or more) Dizziness, fainting, or vertigo
  • Mental confusion Vomiting
  • Rash that looks like sunburn (skin peeling may occur days later)
  • Diarrhea

If you experience any of these symptoms while using a tampon, remove it immediately and contact a doctor or go directly to the emergency room as soon as possible.

Alternative Options For Those Who Don’t Want to Use Tampons

If you decide not to use tampons, there are other products available for the same purpose. These products include both disposable and reusable options. Disposable:

  • External pad
  • Organic pad (made from 100% cotton)

Reusable:

  • Menstrual cup
  • Homemade external pad (cloth pads)

Interesting Facts About Tampons

  • The first tampons were made from weeds, wool, and papyrus.
  • Some American and European women used diapers to stop their flow before World War I.
  • Until the 1970s, tampons and menstruation were rarely discussed in public to preserve a woman’s reputation.
  • A woman uses 16,800 tampons in her lifetime. Chinese women do not use tampons.
  • Remember: using a tampon is a personal decision that you should feel comfortable with and make for yourself!