LOL, feeling a bit innocent! *TMI WARNING*

[Bumperstump Cummerbund]

Okay, after reading all the excellent advice in PB's thread, I've realised I really don't know anything about tampon insertion. Even using the applicators I never got to a point where I couldn't feel it - it always felt like it was gonna fall out. Is it possible that I just can't reach far enough to get it 'in' properly? Given that the last time I tried was 15 years ago, I should probably try again...

What about clots, what happens to them? I tend to have a lot of large clots, would that make me unable to use tampons?

Haha, I'm actually blushing while typing this post

[LimeSlice]

Clots - they will come out overnight when you use pads, or with the tampon as you remove it.

As for not being able to put them in far enough, it is all about position. Can you feel your cervix? If you can reach your cervix, you can put a tampon in far enough.
Use non-applicator ones and practise. There are diagrams and instructions in every box. They are very clear.
"not feeling" it means there should be no discomfort, you may very well still be aware it is there to begin with as you get use to them, but they should be comfortable, and "barely there" itms.

Get a mirror, go for a bit of an investigation and grab a pack and have a practise. The KY is a good suggestion if you are 'dry', I never needed it (never heard it before PBs thread either lol)
Either squatting or one foot on a toilet or bath edge will get you the best posi for the correct insertion... basically, when you are finger deep, it is in roughly the right spot. Feel the direction on your vagina though with just your finger first, and you will find it tilts backward toward your lower back as it goes up, so remember this when inserting - it isn't a "straight up there" scenario You will need to push it back toward your back as it goes up.

HTH Nothing to blush about, so many women I know gave up using them despite their hate for pads, simply because it is clear they have no idea how to use them properly.

Like most things to do with our bodies though, investigation is the key! So grab that mirror, lube up your finger and find out what is where

ETA: Oh, and take a deep breath and RELAX. if you are tense, it won't go up easily, won't be comfy and won't sit in the right spot.

[Nelle]

I had NO idea either for a long time! I breathe out (will come in handy for labour anyway, good relaxation practice!). And yeah the more squatty* you are, the further in you can get it. For ages I didn't get mine up far enough and could feel it. Uncomfy!

And I use my muscles and a big breath to push as I pull the string when it's time for it to come out (again, probably good labour stuff).


*totally a word.

[skybie]

i find squating helps more than the one legged approach. i push it in until u cant reach anymore. and i usually wear a liner aswell JIC but im a reletivly newbi in the tampon world and dnt have 100% confinence yet

[Mum2SweetCs]

lol i have never used a tampon and the thought of it makes me cringe!
You'd think im a virgin hey!

[Phteven]

And I use my muscles and a big breath to push as I pull the string when it's time for it to come out (again, probably good labour stuff).

It should be relatively easy to remove your tampon. If it is 'sticking' the you might be using the wrong tampon for your flow and could go down a size.

[Arimeh]

Your question sounds pretty valid to me.

I remember trying to insert one with an applicator and somehow - I managed to insert the applicator - and was left holding the tampon.... NFI how I managed that!!!

[*TripleJ*]

lol mel
i avoided tampons for ages and im going to avoid them again lol the applicator ones i found easy but stopped using them a little while after and it was easy to insert the normal ones like others said its sorta on an angle and u can still 'feel' them just not uncomfortable im hoping for my first AF to have cloth pads by then fingerscrossed

[Visitor7]

I am sooooo glad this thread is here! I have never used a tampon in my life! They've always freaked me out lol.

[Traveller]

If it felt like it might fall out then it does sound like it was not far enough in. There has been lots of good advice from PP's but one thing I would add is if you are worried about clots, then try a cup instead. It will catch all clots, has a larger capacity for a heavy flow, and will be better for the environment

[Jaycee]

Great thread! Just wanted to say I'm glad I'm not the only one who is clueless when it comes to tampons, I've never used one either and thought I was the only woman in the world not to have at least tried!

[Beatrix]

wow.... I didnt realise many women chose to use a pad...

I couldnt imagaine my life without tampons.. I HATE pads with a passion.

LS gave you the best advice... once you get the hang of it you wont ever look back

[misty]

I could only use tampons after I lost my virginity and even then, only if I used the applicator ones. At that point they changed my life!!! So much easier and more convienient.

Unfortunately since having had three children, I can no longer use tampon anymore. (stupid prolapse)

[Nelle]

Oh yeah Onyx I know - sticking def was an issue when I first started out, and then I would panic and wonder if the string would snap and then it'd be stuck and then I'd paralyse from toxic shock and the fire brigade would have to come and pull it out. I can have some irrational fears at times....

But now I just meant more like relaxing the muscle downwards, sort of releasing, rather than clenching the muscles by being tense.

How does an applicator work? I don't think I've seen those? I go digital here. Middle being far less awkward than index, for me.

[Bumperstump Cummerbund]

Thanks Nelle, I'll work on getting more 'squatty'

WRT an applicator - its a cardboard tube twice as long as the tampon. The tampon is held in the bottom half, you insert the applicator til it won't insert no more, then push the inner half of the applicator into the outer one, which should technically then place the tampon directly in front of your cervix. The you can remove extremely messy applicator and throw it in the bin. Meant for people like me who have long vaginas and short fingers

[Kazbah]

First time I tried a tampon I couldn't get the blasted thing out. Was at SeaWorld for the day and ended up seeing the nurse there for help :blush:

I always worry that my fingernails will cut me when I use my fingers to insert. I do mean to get a cup though.
Might just stay with applicator ones

[angelaartsstudent]

Have you tried sponges (the latex ones)? I used to use them in my late teens and found them WAY easier to get in/out than tampons...and more comfortable...I am a shamless tampon hater :-D

[Bumperstump Cummerbund]

Sponges? Never heard of them. I assume you don't mean Chux?