Let’s be real—menstrual tampons come with a lot of rumours. If you’ve ever heard that tampons are only for older girls, or worse – that you shouldn’t use one until after having had sex, marriage, or even childbirth (seriously?!), you’re not alone.
For some reason, people love making up rules about tampons that have nothing to do with health or science. So let’s break it down: What’s the right age to wear a tampon, and why do so many people have opinions on it?
Myth #1: “Tampons Take Your Virginity”
Let’s shut this down immediately: Using a menstrual tampon has nothing to do with virginity. The myth comes from the fact that tampons go inside the vagina, and some people assume they ‘break the hymen – the thin membrane at the cervical opening that, when torn, is mistakenly believed to be proof of penetrative sex. And yes, while tampon insertion can tear the hymen, (a) a torn hymen is proof of nothing – including sex, and (b) so can many other activities; the hymen naturally wears down over time or can be torn while horseback riding, cycling, or doing gymnastics. And no one is telling you to avoid those activities, right?
Myth #2: “You Shouldn’t Use Tampons Until You’re Married”
In some cultures, girls are told that tampons are only for women after marriage, as if their period isn’t happening before then. This belief usually comes from outdated ideas about ‘purity’ and ‘virginity’ rather than health. Here, marriage is just a euphemism for sex, in which case, see Myth #1 above.
Here’s the truth: Tampons don’t make you less pure, less innocent, or less anything. They’re just a menstrual product, like pads or menstrual cups.
Using a tampon is about comfort and convenience—not marital or virginity status.
Myth #3: “Menstrual Tampons Are Only for Women Who Have Given Birth”
This one is wild. The idea here is that childbirth changes the body and makes it ‘easier’ to insert a tampon. But that’s completely false. Your body doesn’t need to change in order to use a tampon easily.
Your vaginal muscles are designed to stretch and relax, whether you’ve had a baby or not. If a tampon feels uncomfortable at first, it’s usually because you’re tense or not inserting it correctly—not because your body isn’t ‘ready’ structurally.
So, What’s the Right Age to Start Using Menstrual Tampons?
Honestly? Whenever you feel ready.
Most girls get their period between ages 9 and 16, and some are comfortable using menstrual tampons right away, while some prefer to wait. And others may prefer never to use tampons – there’s no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ answer.
Here are some signs you might be ready to try tampons:
- You want to go swimming during your period.
- You’re tired of the bulky feeling of pads.
- You want a more discreet option.
- You feel comfortable with the idea of inserting one.
If you’re curious but nervous, you can always start with a slender, regular-flow tampon (like Nua’s EaseFit Tampons, which are designed for easy insertion and comfort).
Here’s a visual guide for how to do this!
Why Do People Prefer Menstrual Tampons Over Pads?
Once you get past the myths, tampons are actually super practical. Here’s why so many people make the switch:
- They let you move freely. You can run, dance, swim—without worrying about leaks.
- They’re discreet. No more visible pad lines under leggings.
- They feel drier. Since they absorb internally, you don’t feel the same dampness you get with pads.
- Less odour. Blood only starts to smell when it’s exposed to air—tampons help prevent that.
Plus, some tampons, like Nua’s EaseFit Tampons, are designed with no harmful materials to be soft, comfortable, and leak-proof, making them a great choice if you’re just starting out.
Read more about using tampons here.
How to Use Menstrual Tampons (Without Freaking Out)
If the idea of inserting a menstrual tampon makes you nervous, don’t worry. It’s a learning curve, but it’s not as complicated as it sounds. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:
1️. Pick the Right One – Start with a regular absorbency tampon.
2️. Wash Your Hands – Always start clean.
3️. Find a Comfortable Position – Sit on the toilet with your knees apart, or stand with one foot on a stool.
4️. Insert It at an Angle – Hold the tampon at the opening of your vagina, aim slightly toward your lower back, and gently push. If it feels uncomfortable, adjust and try again.
5️. Change It Every 4-8 Hours – Never leave a tampon in for more than 8 hours to avoid health risks.
If at first it doesn’t work, take a deep breath and try again. Relaxing is key.
Final Thoughts: Your Body, Your Choice
At the end of the day, the decision to use a tampon is 100% up to you. Whether you start at 11, 15, or never, what matters is that you feel comfortable and informed about using tampons.
Tampons are safe, practical, and can make life a lot easier—but they’re just one option. If you’re ready to try, start with a beginner-friendly brand like Nua’s EaseFit Tampons. And if you always prefer pads? That’s cool, too.
The only thing that matters is what makes you feel good.
Got questions? Drop them below—we’re all in this together.
