Tampons are pressed cotton cylinders used internally to collect menstrual flow.
Many people prefer to use tampons because they are less messy and more discreet than pads.
Tampons have been around in one form or another for centuries.
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Today, tampons generally contain two parts, an applicator and the tampon itself.
Using an Applicator-Free Tampon
Some people prefer to use tampons without an applicator, such as o.b.
brand because it is better for the environment.
Start by washing your hands and check to double-check the tampon is fully sealed.
Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes!
A tampon goes into the vagina.
Urine comes out of a smaller hole near the top of the vagina known as the urethra.
Both the vagina and urethra are covered by the labia majora, colloquially known as the lips.
A tampon will not block the flow of urine.
However, you could push a tampon out by bearing down, such as during a bowel movement.
In that case, just insert a clean tampon.
No, a tampon will not get lost inside you, even if the string breaks.
Tampons are held in the vagina.
At the top of the vaginal canal is the cervix, which blocks the entrance to the uterus.
While a tampon may get pushed up closer to the cervix, it will not go past it.
No, using a tampon will not make you lose yourvirginity.
Tampons should be changed every two to six hours, depending on howheavy your flowis.
Leaving a tampon in for too long increases the risk of toxic shock syndrome.
Symptoms include:
If you experience any of these symptoms, remove the tampon immediately and seek medical help.
Once inserted, a tampon should last for at least two hours without leaks.
If you find you are leaking sooner than two hours, try a larger size.
The Cleveland Clinic.Toxic shock syndrome.
Inokuchi R, Ueda Y, Sonoo T, Yahagi N.Toxic shock syndrome.BMJ Case Rep.2015;2015. doi:10.1136/bcr-2015-209635
