Change it every 4 to 8 hours, and never leave one in longer than 8 hours. Use the lowest absorbency that manages your flow.
How do you actually use a tampon, step by step?
Wash your hands, choose the lowest absorbency that matches your flow, and get into a relaxed position, such as sitting on the toilet or standing with one foot raised. Angle the tampon toward your lower back and insert it until it feels comfortable and the string hangs outside. Change it every 4 to 8 hours, never leave one in longer than 8 hours, and use the lowest absorbency you need.
Quick facts
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Change every 4 to 8 hours, never longer than 8
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Choose the lowest absorbency that works for your flow, and not a heavier one just in case
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Angle toward your lower back, not straight up
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You should not feel it once it is in the right place. If you do, push it in a little further or try a fresh one
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Only use during your period, never as a way to manage non-period discharge
Step by step
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Wash your hands and unwrap the tampon.
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Get comfortable: sit on the toilet with knees apart, or stand with one foot on the toilet seat or tub edge.
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Relax your muscles. Tension is the main reason insertion feels uncomfortable.
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With an applicator: hold the applicator at the grip, place the tip at the vaginal opening and angle it toward your lower back. Push the barrel in until your fingers reach the grip, then push the inner tube to release the tampon. Remove the applicator.
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Without an applicator: hold the tampon at the base, guide it in with your index finger, angled toward your lower back, until your finger is just inside the opening and the string hangs outside.
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Check it feels comfortable. If you can feel it, push it in a little further.
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To remove, wash your hands, relax, and gently pull the string downward and forward.
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Wrap the used tampon in tissue or its wrapper and put it in a bin. Never flush it.
How often to change, and the warning signs to know
Change a tampon every 4 to 8 hours, and use the lowest absorbency you need. If a tampon comes out with little fluid on it, your absorbency is too high, so try a lighter one.
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is rare, but it is serious, and it is linked to leaving tampons in too long or using ones that are more absorbent than you need. Remove the tampon and get medical help straight away if you suddenly develop a high fever, a rash that looks like sunburn, dizziness, vomiting or diarrhoea, while using a tampon.
Not sure whether tampons suit you? This comparison of pads, tampons, cups and period panties shows how each fits different situations. PeeSafe’s tampons collection covers regular, super and super plus, and the applicator tampons are listed separately.
Common worries
|
Worry |
What to know |
|---|---|
|
I cannot find the string. |
Do not panic. Squat, relax and gently feel inside for the string or the tampon. If you cannot find it, see a doctor, particularly if you notice a smell or unusual discharge. |
|
It hurts to insert. |
Usually tension, a poor angle or too high an absorbency for light flow. Relax, try a smaller size, and consider an applicator tampon. |
|
It leaks. |
It may be too low in absorbency, not inserted far enough, or left in too long. Check each. |
|
Can a tampon get lost inside? |
No. The cervix opening is too small for a tampon to pass through. The string can sometimes be tucked in, and a doctor can help retrieve it. |
Related reading from the PeeSafe blog
FAQ's
How long can you leave a tampon in?
Can I sleep with a tampon in?
Yes, if you insert a fresh one just before bed and remove it within 8 hours. If your sleep may be longer than that, consider a pad or period panty overnight instead.
Can teenagers use tampons?
Yes. Medically there is no age limit. Starting with the lowest absorbency and an applicator tampon can make the first attempt easier.