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How to Insert a Tampon

To insert a tampon, gently guide the rounded tip into your vaginal opening, angling slightly towards your lower back until it feels comfortable. Whether you’re new to tampons, or just looking for some helpful tips, our step-by-step guide has you covered.

Learning how to insert a tampon is easy once you’ve got the hang of it. Whether your new to tampons or you’re simply looking for some useful advice, we’ve got plenty of tips to help you feel at ease. Our aim is to make you feel comfortable and confident, no matter which tampons you use.

How to insert a tampon without an applicator

LL UK Non App Tampon Steps 01

1. Wash your hands

Make sure your hands are clean before unwrapping the tampon. Using a gentle soap and warm water is the best option.

LL UK Non App Tampon Steps 02

2. Remove the tampon wrapper

Simply twist the wrapper as indicated and remove the bottom section. Then, gently unravel the string and give it a little tug to ensure it's securely in place.

LL UK Non App Tampon Steps 03

3. Get into a comfortable position

There are many positions you can get into when inserting a tampon. We find the best positions are squatting / sitting down on the toilet seat with your knees apart, lifting a leg or lying down with your legs apart.

LL UK Non App Tampon Steps 04

4. Insert the round end of the tampon

Use your fingertips to guide the tampon into position. Gently push until your knuckle touches the entrance to the vagina. If you’re new to using tampons, you might start to tense up. Relax and take a deep breath — you’ve got this!

LL UK Non App Tampon Steps 05

5. Ensure the tampon is in position

You'll know the tampon is in the right spot when you can no longer feel it. At first, it may feel like it's too far up, but actually, this is the perfect position for ultimate comfort. The tampon string should be hanging outside of the vagina.

How to insert a tampon with an applicator

LL UK Non App Tampon Steps 01

1. Wash your hands

It’s important to make sure your hands are clean before unwrapping and using a tampon.

LL UK App Tampon Steps 02

2. Remove the tampon wrapper

Make sure you unravel the tampon string after removing the tampon wrapper.

LL UK App Tampon Steps 03

3. Insert the rounded end of the applicator

Hold the applicator with your thumb and middle finger at the base of the tube. There will most likely be some grooves to help you get a good grip.

Slowly insert the tampon applicator all the way into the vagina in a slanting direction towards the lower back, and until your fingers touch the entrance to the vagina. Using your index finger, or even your other hand, push the inner tube / plunger all the way in.

LL UK App Tampon Steps 04

4. Gently remove the applicator from the vagina

After removing the applicator, the tampon should be positioned inside the vagina with the string hanging out.

How to use a tampon for the first time

Here are some extra techniques and tips for people learning how to properly use a tampon for the first time:

  • Be sure to align the tip of the tampon with the vaginal opening and not the urethra (pee hole).
  • Use tampons with the right absorbency for your needs. You can start with a lower absorbency tampon and see how things go.
  • Practice inserting a tampon when your flow is medium to heavy, so you have enough lubrication.

 

How to remove a tampon

The good news is that removing a tampon is easy to figure out once you know how to put one in. Firstly, make sure you wash your hands and get into a comfortable position.

When you’re ready to remove your tampon, you can locate the tampon string and pinch it with your thumb and index finger before slowly pulling it out. From there, wrap the tampon in a bit of toilet paper, throw it in the bin and wash your hands again. It really is that easy! We never recommend flushing your tampon.

Always read the leaflet held inside every pack of tampons and change your tampon every 4-8 hours to avoid leaks and reduce the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).

 

Key tips to remember when using tampons

Inserting and removing a tampon takes practice. Some of us grasp it on our first try, while others need a bit more time. Take your time and try a couple of absorbencies to find the best match. And if you simply can’t wrap your head around inserting a tampon with your finger, you could try using a pad, applicator tampons or menstrual cups. Period underwear is also a great alternative for many women out there.

Why Lil-Lets tampons are a great choice

Lil-Lets non-applicator and applicator tampons are made with SmartFit™ technology that expands all the way around for greater comfort and protection against leaks. They’re also made from *96% less plastic than most leading tampon brands while being 100% free from chlorine and bleach. Choose from a wide range of absorbent and comfortable tampons to suit your flow.

*94- 96% less plastic when comparing equivalent absorbency tampons from the Lil-Lets non-applicator range to the leading brand compact plastic applicator ranges.

 

Buy Lil-Lets tampons for your comfort & protection

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the easiest way to insert a tampon?

The easiest way to insert a tampon depends on your body, personal preference and experience using tampons. Many people find it easier to squat and insert the tampon with their index or middle finger. Alternatively, it might be easier to sit down on the toilet or lie down on your back. 

How long does it take to insert a tampon?

Inserting a tampon typically takes just a few seconds depending on your experience and comfort level. It may take a bit longer if you’re new to using tampons or finding the right position.

Should it hurt when you put in a tampon?

It should not hurt when putting a tampon in. You might experience a little bit of discomfort, especially if you aren’t lubricated or it’s your first time. If the pain persists, consider trying a different tampon absorbency. If that doesn’t help, consult a gynaecologist or healthcare professional.

How do I know where to insert a tampon?

You should insert a tampon into your vaginal opening, which is located next to your urethra (where you pee). Gently guide the tampon into the vaginal canal, angling it towards your lower back for easier insertion.

How does it feel to insert a tampon?

Inserting a tampon feels like gentle pressure, and when inserted correctly, you shouldn't feel it at all. Any discomfort may indicate that the tampon is not placed high enough.

What if I can feel the tampon once it's in?

If you can still feel the inserted tampon when you walk around or sit down, then chances are it’s not been inserted high enough inside the vaginal canal. We recommend removing this tampon and trying again with a new one.

How far up are you supposed to insert a tampon?

You should insert a tampon until the applicator, or your finger, is almost fully inside the vagina. Leave the string outside for easy removal. The tampon should sit comfortably and not cause any discomfort.

How far do you insert a tampon applicator?

You should insert the tampon applicator until your fingers are touching your body and the outer part of the applicator is fully inside the vaginal opening. This ensures the tampon is placed properly and comfortably inside the vaginal canal.

Can a tampon get lost inside you?

A tampon cannot get lost inside you so there’s no need to panic! The cervix opening is too small for a tampon to fit through, meaning it will stay inside the vagina and can be removed.

How do you know when to remove a tampon?

With experience, you will naturally know when it’s time to remove your tampon. You may initially experience leaks, or notice blood on your tampon string, these are both excellent indications it’s time to change your tampon. If you aren't experiencing any of these things, you should always remove your tampon after 8 hours or less.

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