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Tampon is a feminine hygiene product used to absorb menstrual flow. Made of soft cotton, tampons come in a cylinder-like shape, designed to be effortlessly inserted into the vagina. This product is similar to sanitary pads but tampons absorb the menstrual blood before it leaves the body. You can buy tampons at grocery stores or pharmacies. They come in different absorbencies and different sizes. Although it is inserted into the vagina, it will not get lost or get stuck inside you. Once it has absorbed the blood you can pull it out with the string attached to the product or if the string breaks, you can reach in and pull the tampon out using your fingers. If you are using a tampon for the first time then it is advisable to use a ‘slender’ size tampon and do not worry, you will be able to insert it easily during moderate to heavy flow. So here’s your guide to use a tampon. (ALSO READ How to get rid of pad rash: Tips to get relief from sanitary pad rashes during periods)
Tampons are available in grocery stores and medical stores. If you are new to tampons then use a packet, which contains an applicator. Also check the absorbency. Most women use tampons with high absorbency for first couple of days of the period. Use a slender tampon if you are using it for the first time.
It is important to wash your hands before inserting the tampon to prevent contamination. Although, the application is sterile, it is good to wash your hands before starting. Hygiene is important, so if the tampon drops on the floor, discard it.
Tampon
You can insert it sitting on the toilet or standing. Sit on the toilet with your knees spread wider that usual and find your vagina. Yes, it can be tricky during first few times. There are three openings: the first opening is called urethra from where urine exit, the middle opening is the vagina and the opening at the back is anus.
Now, hold the applicator correctly at the midpoint where the larger tube and the smaller tube of the applicator meet. Hold it between your thumb and the middle finger with your index finger at the end where the string is present.
Insert the larger tube into the vagina. Push it until your finger at the midpoint of the applicator touches the flesh.
Now, press the thinner or the smaller half of the applicator inside of you with your index finger. Push it till your index finger meets the thicker part of the applicator.
Now, gently pull the thicker part or the applicator out. You will not pull out the tampon if the tampon is inserted fully. Throw the applicator into the bin after wrapping it in a paper. Make sure you do not flush the applicator. You can insert the tampon while standing by placing a foot on a higher place.(ALSO READ How often do you need to change your sanitary towel or pad? Everything you need to know about menstruation and hygiene!).
If the tampon is inserted correctly then you will not be able to feel anything inside you. It will not be uncomfortable. If it is painful when you walk or sit, then it has not been inserted properly. Usually, it happens when the tampon is not far up in the vagina. You can push it in using your finger and then check for comfort. If it continues to hurt, then pull it out and insert a fresh one.
Tampon
You need to change the tampon every four to six hours. Although extremely rare, there is a possibility of Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) as result of leaving a tampon inside the vagina for too long. TSS is a serious medical condition caused by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. So, it should not be left inside the vagina more than six hours. If you sleep more than six hours at night, use a pad instead of using a tampon.
Removing a tampon is not at all painful, so relax. All you have to do is – slowly pull out the tampon by tugging the string at the end of the tampon. It can be slightly uncomfortable as there can be some friction. If you feel some resistance, it can be because it is too dry. Use water and it will come out easily. Dispose the tampon in a bin. Some tampons can be flushed, so read the instructions provided on the packet to know whether it has to be flushed or thrown in a bin. The best way is to wrap it in a paper and throw it in a bin.(ALSO READ Foods to eat during Periods: Best and healthy foods to fight PMS and menstrual cramps).
Tampon
As you need to change the tampon every four to six hours, make sure you carry spare tampons where ever you are going.
During the first couple of days of your period, it is advisable to use higher absorbency tampons and only when you need to stop a heavy flow. You can switch to light or regular absorbency tampon when the flow is not that heavy.(ALSO READ Why breasts sore before period: Here’s everything you should know about premenstrual breast swelling).
There is no minimum age to use a tampon and can use at any age as long as you are comfortable. Many girls use tampon before using a pad, especially, if they are active in sports.
Tampon
Your hymn will not tear when you use a tampon. The thin membrane, hymn, might stretch lightly but will not tear. Tampons will not make you lose virginity.
You not face any difficulty while using bathroom when you have tampon inside you. You just need to lift the string so that it is not in the way.(ALSO READ Can a woman get pregnant during her period? Here’s everything you wanted to know!).
It is not advisable to use a tampon after your period is over as pilling out the dry tampon can be uncomfortable as well as painful due to friction.
You need to change the tampon after you go for a swimming as the string of the tampon gets wet and salt water or the chlorine in the water can cause skin irritation.
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