- Make sure that you have washed your hands and that your hands are clean.
- If you already have a tampon in, make sure that you have removed it by pulling it out using the string. Put the used tampon in a sanitary disposal bin or a different bin if one of those isn’t available.
- Unwrap your tampon from the packaging. The tampon will have an applicator with a larger outer tube (the grip to hold on to whilst inserting it) and the inner tube (the plunger) where you will see the string hanging out of the bottom.
- Find a comfortable position that allows you to insert the tampon – this may be sitting on a toilet, standing, propping one foot on a ledge, or laying down – whichever works for you. You need to be able to relax your muscles because, if you are tensing, it will be more difficult to insert the tampon.
- Set the tip of the tampon at the genital opening, holding the small part just above the plunger (for grips).
- Finding the right angle that is comfortable for you might take practice, so at first aim the tampon towards your lower back at an angle.
- Insert the tampon slowly until you have inserted it up until your fingers on the grip are touching your skin around the external opening.
- Use the plunger. Slowly push the plunger down all the way which will insert the tampon.
- Once you have inserted the tampon, remove the applicator (all of the cardboard or plastic) out. The string should be left hanging out – you can tuck this inside your underwear.
Tips:
If the tampon feels uncomfortable, or that you are feeling like it isn’t in properly, it could be that you haven’t inserted it far enough or that it is inserted at the wrong angle. Try to readjust the tampon while it is inserted, but if it is still uncomfortable then you may wish to remove it.
If you are having difficulty inserting a tampon or find that it is always painful, you may wish to visit your GP for advice.
Support
- Your GP – If you are experiencing any issues with your period or any significant changes to your period, the first thing to do is contact your GP. If you’re not registered to a GP, you can find your local one and how to register here.
- If you are experiencing painful, really heavy, or irregular periods, we would recommend that you contact your GP as soon as possible as it may be indicative of an issue or medical condition.
- Really heavy periods, alongside other symptoms, may be an indication of endometriosis which is where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other places, such as in the ovaries and fallopian tubes. This is estimated to affect around 190 million women and girls. You can get support from Endometriosis UK through their support groups, helpline, webchat and online community. “It’s okay to talk, period”.
- You can go in to many Morrisons stores across the country and ask for a “Package for Sandy”. You will be provided with a discreet envelope with period products inside.