i can't insert a tampon fully

**fallenangel1xxx** · 10-20-2011 06:23 PM

I am a virgin and assumed my hymen would interfere but i can get it like half way "in" this is personal and really embarrassing but i am at my wits end! i hate pads but i just can't use a tampon and it hurts like when i try, what should i do!?

**pumpkinpieisgood** · 10-20-2011 11:32 PM

Don't be embarrassed; it took me a while before I could master putting a tampon in. We've all been there, and the point of this forum is to help one another.

How heavy are your periods? I know that it's easier to insert one when there's more blood. If you're really tense or nervous, it's difficult because your muscles are tight, and it can hurt.
Try not to worry too much about putting it in; just relax. It doesn't matter if you do it sitting, standing, or lying down; just do whatever is most comfortable for you. Be gentle since you're new at it, but shove it in until the bottom part you use to actually push the tampon out is at the opening of your vagina, and then you can push it in.
You probably felt pain when you did it because it wasn't far enough inside of you. If you get frustrated and want to try it again later, that's okay.
One more thing; it's easy to forget about toxic shock syndrome (TSS) once you've been using tampons long enough. If you have a tampon in for a long time, it can get you very sick. Remember to change them often and, even though I know you don't like them, alternate between tampons and pads (use a tampon for a few hours, then switch to a pad, back and forth). It's also okay to pee with tampons in.

**angelstrawberry** · 10-21-2011 12:47 PM

This should be easy if you use the right kind of tampon. Dont use ones with the cardboard applicator, or obs with no applicator. I always found those more difficult to insert. I haven't used tampons in a while so not sure what's the best but maybe like playtex gentle glide. Use one with a plastic applicator light absorbancy. It should go in smooth.

**lizzardb63** · 10-21-2011 01:14 PM

They also have the mini tampons for those who are just starting out or are having difficulties. Maybe you can work your way up to using regular or super sized tampons.

**neuronerd88** · 10-23-2011 07:17 PM

Use the ones with plastic applicators, and only try putting it in on the heaviest day(s) of your period. Use the thinnest one you can find for the first time (the ones advertised for a lighter flow). The very first time I got mine in, I was lying down on a towel on the bathroom floor with my legs bent and wide out to the sides. This might not be the best position for you, though; my friend did it with one leg down and one leg up on the toilet lid. Remember to not shove straight up towards your head; point it towards your lower back at a slight angle. Be gentle, but you'll have to push to get it all the way in; it usually doesn't just slide up there on its own. You won't automatically break your hymen, either; I didn't until years after using my first tampon. On days where there's not a lot of blood, just use one of those ultra thin panty liners and you'll barely notice it.