How to use tampons for the first time?

Two laughing girls laying on the grass

If you’ve never used one before, using a tampon for the first time can seem a bit daunting at first. But once you get it right, it’ll only take a moment. The secret to tampons for beginners is to relax and don’t try to insert a tampon when you’re not on your period. We’ll help you learn how to use a tampon for the first time.

How to put a tampon in for the first time

We’ve pulled together several tips to help you use a tampon effortlessly:

  • Practise inserting a tampon when your period flow is medium to heavy.
  • Find a position that is comfortable for you. Some people find it easier to crouch down with their knees apart, or to stand with one foot on the toilet seat or edge of the bath. Try different positions to find one that works for you.
  • Wash your hands before unwrapping the tampon, even if you’re using an applicator tampon.
  • Stretch the cord of the tampon before you insert it.
  • Tilt the tampon slightly backwards and not straight up when you insert it. This way the tampon will follow the natural slope of your vagina.
  • Remove the tampon if you can feel it straight after insertion. You’ll need to insert another one – try to push it a little further in.
  • Wrap the used applicator in a tissue and throw it in the bin. Dispose of used tampons in the same way.

Every pack of Tampax comes with a step-by-step guide and this can be used as a guide to tampons for beginners. Please make sure that you take a look at this before using a tampon for the first time.

Check out Tampax’s new step-by-step guide to tampons and watch super helpful videos from a partnership with Tyla: