How to Use a Tampon: A Simple Guide for First-Time Users

October 09, 2025By Nona Woman

For many menstruating women, using a tampon for the first time can feel intimidating — but it doesn’t have to be. When used correctly, tampons are a safe, comfortable, and discreet way to manage your period. Understanding how to insert, remove, and choose the right tampon can make your menstrual experience more confident and stress-free.

1. What Is a Tampon?

A tampon is a small, cylindrical piece of absorbent material (usually cotton or a blend of cotton and rayon) designed to be inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual blood directly from the source. Unlike pads, which collect blood externally, tampons work internally, allowing for greater freedom of movement during sports, swimming, or daily activities.

Tampons come in two main types:

Applicator tampons, which include a plastic or cardboard applicator to help guide insertion.
Non-applicator tampons, which are inserted using your finger.

2. Choosing the Right Tampon

Tampons come in different absorbencies — from light to super plus. It’s important to choose one that matches your menstrual flow.

Use a light or regular tampon for lighter days.
Use a super or super plus tampon for heavier days.

Using a tampon that’s too absorbent for your flow can increase the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS) — a rare but serious bacterial infection.

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Inserting a Tampon

Step 1: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
Step 2: Get comfortable — you can sit on the toilet, stand with one leg up, or squat.
Step 3: Unwrap the tampon and locate the string.
Step 4: Gently insert the applicator or tampon into your vagina at a slight upward angle toward your lower back.
Step 5: If using an applicator, push the plunger to release the tampon inside, then remove the applicator.
Step 6: Ensure the string is hanging outside your body — this will help you remove it later.

If you can feel the tampon or experience discomfort, it might not be inserted far enough. Try removing it and inserting a new one with a smoother motion.

4. Removing and Disposing of a Tampon

A tampon should be changed every 4 to 8 hours, depending on your flow. To remove it:

Wash your hands.
Gently pull the string downward and forward.
Wrap the used tampon in toilet paper and dispose of it in a trash bin — never flush tampons down the toilet.

Always remove the last tampon at the end of your period to avoid irritation or infection.

5. Tips for Safe Use

Alternate between tampons and pads to reduce irritation.
Avoid using tampons overnight for more than 8 hours.
If you experience symptoms like fever, rash, vomiting, or dizziness while using a tampon, remove it immediately and contact a healthcare provider — these may be signs of TSS.

Conclusion

Learning how to use a tampon is about getting to know your body and finding what feels most comfortable. With a bit of practice, it becomes an easy, empowering way to manage your period confidently and hygienically.

References:

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2021). Frequently Asked Questions: Toxic Shock Syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.acog.org
Cleveland Clinic. (2022). How to Insert and Remove a Tampon. Retrieved from https://health.clevelandclinic.org
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2020). The Facts on Tampons and How to Use Them Safely. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/facts-tampons-and-how-use-them-safely
Mayo Clinic. (2021). Menstrual products: Choosing what's right for you. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org