When inserting, wearing, or removing tampons, there shouldn’t be any momentary or ongoing pain.
Tampons should be scarcely perceptible when properly inserted, or at the very least, they should be comfortable to wear. Everybody is unique, of course. A tampon might be felt differently by different people.
However, even though such folks might be able to feel the tampon inside of them, it shouldn’t ever be unpleasant or uncomfortable.
KEY SUMMARY TAKEAWAY
✅ Tampons shouldn’t hurt or feel awkward.
✅ They should be scarcely perceptible when worn.
✅ There are always different menstruation products to choose from.
✅ Practice makes perfect, remove the tampon and try again.
✅ It may be necessary to seek medical attention if pain or discomfort continues.
Why would you be able to feel the tampon or experience discomfort?
There are a few reasons why you could experience pain from using tampons. To begin with, you might not be correctly inserting the tampon:
To insert your tampon, take it out of its packaging with clean hands. Next, settle into a cozy position and hold the tampon by its applicator with one hand while opening the labia with the other (the folds of skin around the vulva). then gently insert the tampon into your vagina.
To remove the tampon from the applicator, push the plunger of the tampon up. You can use your pointer finger to push the tampon the rest of the way in if it isn’t fully inserted.
Consult the instructions that are included with each box if you’re not sure if you’re inserting the tampon correctly. This will have the most precise information that is specific to the brand of tampon you are using.
How do you determine what size to use?
The size of your tampon is entirely dependent on how much your flow is. Each person’s cycle is different, so you could notice that some days are heavier than others.
You may discover that you soak through a tampon more quickly during the first few days of your period, which is usually thicker. If you go through a regular-sized tampon quickly, you might want to use super, super plus, or super plus extra tampons.
You could notice that your flow is lighter as your period draws to a close. You could only need a light or junior tampon as a result. The smaller profile of light or junior tampons makes them a little bit simpler to insert and remove, making them excellent for beginners.
There is a quick approach to determine what absorbency to use if you’re still unclear. Try a tampon with less absorbency if you notice a lot of white, untouched regions on the tampon after removing it between 4 and 8 hours.
On the other side, choose a heavier absorbency if you bleed through it entirely. To find the ideal absorbency, you might need to experiment. Use a panty liner if you’re concerned about leaks while you’re still getting used to your flow.
Some suggestions for reducing discomfort during insertion?
Take a few long breaths to loosen up your muscles before insertion. It could be more challenging to insert the tampon if your body is under stress and your muscles are tense. To implant, you should choose a comfortable position. The usual positions for doing this are sitting, squatting, or standing with one leg on the toilet’s corner. In these positions, your vagina is angled for ideal insertion.
Investigating various tampon types can also help to reduce discomfort. Cardboard applicators can be uncomfortable for some people to insert. Applicators made of plastic fit into the vagina more easily. If you’d rather insert tampons with your fingers, there are also options with applicator-free tampons.
Wash your hands both before and after inserting whichever applicator type you decide on.
What happens during the removal?
The same general principle applies to removal: Take a few deep breaths to loosen your muscles and relax your body. Pull down the string to remove the tampon. There is no reason to hurry the procedure. You need to pull lightly and maintain a steady breath in order to make it more comfortable.
Remember that removing a dry tampon that hasn’t been in for very long or that hasn’t absorbed a lot of blood can be more painful. They don’t feel as lubricated as tampons that have absorbed more blood, therefore this is normal.
What if the discomfort persists?
If your initial attempt is not the most comfortable, don’t stress. It could take a few tries if you’re just starting to use tampons before you find a good rhythm. Walking about can also help ease any discomfort experienced at the time of initial insertion because your tampon will usually migrate to a more comfortable position as you move around and go about your day.
What alternatives to period products are there?
There are a number of additional menstrual items you can use if tampons are still making you uncomfortable. To begin with, there are pads (sometimes referred to as sanitary napkins). These adhere to your underwear and collect period blood on a cushioned surface. To avoid leaks and stains, some choices incorporate wings that fold under your underwear.
Although the majority of pads are disposable, some are made of organic cotton that can be cleaned and reused. This kind of pad often employs buttons or snaps rather than adhesive to attach to the underwear.
Period underwear, often known as period panties, uses an ultra-absorbent material to trap period blood and is a more environmentally friendly option. Menstrual cups are the final option. These cups are constructed from soft plastic, silicone, or rubber.
They can remain inside the vagina for up to 12 hours at a time, catching menstrual blood. Most of them can be emptied, cleaned, and used again.
When should I go and visit my doctor?
It may be necessary to seek medical attention if pain or discomfort continues.
If you experience unexpected discharge when attempting to insert, wear, or remove a tampon, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises speaking with a doctor.
If you do notice these symptoms you may have Toxic shock syndrome. if you ve a fever 102°F (38.9°C) or higher, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, and or fainting. If you suspect this, remove the tampon right away, then call a doctor.
A sexually transmitted illness. Persistent pain, stinging, or discomfort when using or using a tampon can also mean these things. Endometriosis, vulvodynia, vaginal cysts, and cervical inflammation.
Your doctor or a gynecologist can perform an examination to identify the source of your symptoms.
In conclusion
Tampons shouldn’t hurt or feel awkward. They should be scarcely perceptible when worn. Keep in mind that practice makes perfect. Therefore, remove the tampon and try again if you insert it and it is uncomfortable.
There are always different menstruation products to take into account, and your doctor will be able to assist you if the pain persists.