But after you figure things out — and with enough practice — it becomes second nature. This is usually made of cotton, rayon, or organic cotton. The tampon is a small cylinder that fits inside the vaginal canal. The material is compressed and expands when it gets wet. The string is the part that extends outside of the vagina so you can pull it for removal more on that later. The applicator that surrounds the tampon and string is made of the barrel, grip, and plunger. Sometimes, if you have a travel-sized tampon, you might have to extend the plunger and click it into place. The plunger moves the tampon outside of the applicator. You do so by holding on to the grip with the tips of your fingers and placing another finger on the end of the plunger. Honestly, this can be up to personal preference.
Tampons at a glance
Are there different sizes of tampons?
You may feel nervous about using a tampon for the first time. Tampons are products used to absorb your menstrual flow. They are made of soft cotton pressed together to form a cylinder-like shape, so that they can be easily inserted into the opening of the vagina. Tampons come in all different sizes and absorbencies. You can buy them at most pharmacies and grocery stores. By following the simple guidelines below, as well as the instructions that come with the tampons, your first experience with tampons should be easy. Remember, the more you relax, the easier the insertion will be.
How to choose the right feminine hygiene product
Shop TODAY has affiliate relationships so we may get a small share of the revenue if you buy something through our links. Whether you're a tampon novice or a seasoned pro, there are a few things about this popular feminine hygiene product that are just plain confusing. At one point or other, we've all had the same pressing questions about how to find the perfect tampon size, how to master your tampon insertion technique and that age old question: "How long can I keep a tampon in? To help break down this "need to know" tampon knowledge, TODAY went straight to the experts who know all there is to know about periods: gynecologists.
Tampons are used for menstrual flows to absorb the blood during the days of a period. Much like sanitary pads, they are a blend of rayon and cotton that collect any blood and fluid flowing out of the vagina. Once inserted, a cord extends out of the body for easy removal. Tampons can also come without applicators and are inserted using the index finger. Young girls and teens generally find tampons with applicators easier to use when they begin their period. Tampons come in various shapes and sizes with different levels of absorbency and are designed to hold from six to eight grams of blood. Depending on your flow, amounts of blood lost may vary and the tampon size you use will change. Inserting a tampon for the first time can be intimidating. Be sure to wash your hands and try to be as relaxed as possible, so as to make it easier to slide in. If you can still feel the tampon, you can pull it out and try re-inserting a new one, pushing it up higher.
