{"id":11143,"date":"2025-02-21T15:37:36","date_gmt":"2025-02-21T10:07:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nuawoman.com\/blog\/?p=11143"},"modified":"2025-02-21T15:37:36","modified_gmt":"2025-02-21T10:07:36","slug":"dos-and-donts-of-using-tampons-everything-you-should-know","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/nuawoman.com\/blog\/dos-and-donts-of-using-tampons-everything-you-should-know\/","title":{"rendered":"Do\u2019s and Don’ts of Using Tampons: Everything You Should Know"},"content":{"rendered":"

Tampons can be a total game-changer for your period. Let’s be real: they offer a level of freedom that a pad just can\u2019t compete with.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

But whether you\u2019re new to the world of menstrual tampons, or if you\u2019ve been using them for years, there\u2019s a lot to learn about getting it right, and it\u2019s always worth brushing up on how to use tampons safely and comfortably. No one wants to talk about it, but there\u2019s also a lot that can go wrong.<\/span> So, let\u2019s break it down \u2014 here are the do\u2019s and don\u2019ts of using\u00a0tampons for beginners!<\/span><\/p>\n

When You Use a Tampon, Do:<\/b>
\n<\/span><\/h2>\n

Do: Choose the Right Absorbency<\/b><\/h3>\n

Tampons come in different absorbency levels for a reason. Always match your tampon to your flow\u2014 regular, super, or super plus. Using the right size helps prevent leaks, keeping you stress-free during your day.<\/span><\/p>\n

However, using the wrong size can be messy at best and painful at worst. <\/span>Research<\/span><\/a> shows that higher absorbency tampons are associated with an increased risk of <\/span>Toxic Shock Syndrome<\/span><\/a>\u2014a rare but serious condition. Plus, using a high-absorbency menstrual tampon when your flow is light can dry you out, and removing a dry tampon is <\/span>not<\/span><\/i> fun. *Ouch*.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Do: Relax When Inserting<\/b><\/h3>\n

Insertion is a skill, and like any skill, it takes practice. If it\u2019s your first time using a\u00a0tampon, give yourself time to get it right.\u00a0The key to figuring out how to use a tampon for the first time:\u00a0Relaxing (seriously, muscle tension makes it harder), and trying different positions\u2014e.g. sitting on the toilet, standing with one leg up, whatever feels easiest.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once the\u00a0tampon\u00a0is in, you shouldn\u2019t feel it at all. If it\u2019s uncomfortable, it might not be far enough in. Checking out our\u00a0<\/span>tampon insertion guide<\/span><\/a>\u00a0can help you get the technique right.<\/span><\/p>\n

Do: Change It Every 4-8 Hours (Or Especially After a Poo)<\/b><\/h3>\n

Never, ever leave a tampon in for longer than 8 hours. Doing so increases your risk of <\/span>Toxic Shock Syndrome<\/span><\/a>. Set an alarm if you\u2019re forgetful, and always swap out your tampon before you hit that 8-hour mark. Pro tip: on heavier days, consider changing your tampon every 4-6 hours to avoid leaking and potential health risks.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Another, more lesser-known rule of thumb is to change your tampon after a bowel movement. Bacteria-laden faeces can contaminate the string that hangs out of the tampon, exposing you to potential vaginal or\u00a0urinary tract infections.<\/span><\/p>\n

Do: Carry Extras<\/b><\/h3>\n

Tampons are like bobby pins\u2014you always need more than you think. Keep a stash in your bag, car, or desk drawer because nothing\u2019s worse than realizing you\u2019re out when your period arrives unannounced. Having extras also lets you help a friend in need\u2014period solidarity is a thing.<\/span><\/p>\n

Do: Listen to Your Body<\/b><\/h3>\n

Your body knows best. If you\u2019re feeling discomfort or pain when using a tampon, it\u2019s a sign to stop and reassess. Sometimes switching to a smaller size or a different brand with softer materials can make a world of difference. Paying attention to your body\u2019s signals can prevent irritation and long-term health issues.<\/span> A\u00a0tampon insertion guide\u00a0can also help you adjust and ensure you\u2019re doing it correctly.<\/span><\/p>\n

When You Use a Tampon, Don\u2019t:<\/b><\/h2>\n

Don\u2019t: Double Up<\/b><\/h3>\n

Never use more than one tampon at a time, even if your flow is heavy. If you need more protection, consider pairing a tampon with a <\/span>liner<\/span><\/a> or switching to a super or ultra-absorbent tampon.<\/span><\/p>\n

Inserting a second tampon may push the first one deeper into the vaginal canal, making it challenging to remove and increasing the risk of forgetting about it. This can lead to a retained tampon, which may cause symptoms like unusual discharge, odor, and, in severe cases, infections such as bacterial vaginosis, or even microtears in the vaginal walls. Yikes!<\/span><\/p>\n

Don\u2019t: Force It<\/b><\/h3>\n

If you\u2019re finding\u00a0tampon insertion\u00a0uncomfortable or painful, stop and reassess. Maybe your flow isn\u2019t heavy enough yet, or you need a smaller size. Forcing a tampon in can cause microtears, which no one wants (see above).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Using the\u00a0<\/span>best tampons for beginners<\/span><\/a> can make the process smoother.\u00a0Tampon use\u00a0should feel effortless\u2014don\u2019t settle for less.<\/span><\/p>\n

Don\u2019t: Flush them!<\/b><\/h3>\n

Wrap used tampons in tissue or their wrapper, and toss them in the trash. Flushing them can clog pipes and is terrible for the environment. Tampons are convenient; don\u2019t let them ruin your plumbing karma. It\u2019s a simple habit that makes a big difference.<\/span><\/p>\n

Don\u2019t: Use a Tampon for Discharge or Spotting\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>\n

Tampons are made for period blood, not everyday vaginal discharge or spotting. Inserting a menstrual tampon when you\u2019re not on your period can dry out your vagina and throw off your pH balance. If you\u2019re spotting, opt for a <\/span>panty liner<\/span><\/a> instead.<\/span><\/p>\n

Don\u2019t: Ignore Unusual Symptoms<\/b><\/h3>\n

If you notice unusual smells, irritation, or fever after using a tampon, remove it immediately and call your doctor. Sometimes it\u2019s nothing, but it\u2019s always better to be safe. Your health is worth the extra attention.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Left a tampon in for longer than 8 hours? Remove it ASAP. If it\u2019s been days (yes, it happens), don\u2019t panic\u2014but definitely see a doctor. The health risks of tampons that are forgotten include infections or worse. This is why setting reminders or using a backup method can be a lifesaver.<\/span><\/p>\n

Wrapping It Up<\/b><\/h2>\n

Tampons are like the ultimate sidekick for your period\u2014but only if you\u2019re using them right. They aren\u2019t just about convenience; they\u2019re about empowering you to live your life, period included. If you’re just getting started, <\/span>researching the\u00a0best tampons for beginners\u00a0<\/span><\/a>and reading a\u00a0<\/span>tampon insertion guide<\/span><\/a>\u00a0can make all the difference in your experience.Plus, if you keep these do\u2019s and don\u2019ts in mind, and you\u2019ll be a pro in no time.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Remember, whether you\u2019re Team Tampon, Team Pad, or a mix of both, the goal is to find what works for you. Your period, your rules.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Still have questions about proper tampon use? Shoot your Qs in the comments and we will reply with As!<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Tampons can be a total game-changer for your period. Let’s be real: they offer a level of freedom that a…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":130,"featured_media":11140,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_editorskit_title_hidden":false,"_editorskit_reading_time":0,"_editorskit_typography_data":[],"_editorskit_blocks_typography":"","_editorskit_is_block_options_detached":false,"_editorskit_block_options_position":"{}","footnotes":""},"categories":[221],"tags":[40,1203,52,561],"amp_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/nuawoman.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11143"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/nuawoman.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/nuawoman.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nuawoman.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/130"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nuawoman.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=11143"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/nuawoman.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11143\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":11144,"href":"https:\/\/nuawoman.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11143\/revisions\/11144"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nuawoman.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/11140"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/nuawoman.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=11143"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nuawoman.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=11143"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nuawoman.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=11143"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}