There was a time when only women who knew about tampons were the ones who either had relatives or friends staying outside India or the ones who themselves returned after studying or working abroad. But now times have changed. Many women and it won’t hurt to say men too know much about tampons. However, there are still some doubts and concerns surrounding the usage of tampons. Tampons are actually great and Indian women can certainly use them without having mental blocks about them.

What’s a tampon?

Let’s understand what a tampon is how it works. Tampon is a cylindrical shaped absorbent material with a string. It goes up your vagina and absorbs the menstrual fluids. It ends with a string that sticks out of the vagina so that it is easier to pull the used tampon out.

How to insert a tampon

Inserting a tampon for the first time can be a little intimidating, but with practice, it can become an easy and comfortable part of your menstrual routine. Here are the steps to follow:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
• Sit on the toilet or stand with one foot on the toilet seat or edge of the bathtub.
• Unwrap the tampon and hold it at the base, where the string is.
• With your other hand, separate your labia (the outer and inner folds of your vulva) to expose your vaginal opening.
• Gently insert the tampon into your vagina with the applicator or your fingers, aiming toward the small of your back. If you’re using an applicator, insert it until the applicator is fully inside your vagina and the strings are hanging outside. If you’re using your fingers, insert the tampon until your fingers touch your body.
• Once the tampon is in, use your finger or the applicator to push the tampon in until the inner tube or your fingers are fully inserted.
• Hold the string and gently pull the applicator or your fingers out, leaving the tampon inside.
• Check that the string is hanging outside your body, and that the tampon is inserted comfortably and not causing any discomfort.
• Wash your hands again and dispose of the tampon wrapper and applicator in the trash.

Remember to change your tampon every 4-8 hours, or more frequently if it becomes saturated with blood. If you experience pain or discomfort while inserting a tampon, stop and try again later, or consider using pads or menstrual cups instead. Brands like SOFY offer comfortable and soft tampons that come with an applicator that helps smoothly glide the tampon into the vagina without you having to put in a lot of effort. Quit worrying and get your hands on this amazing menstrual hygiene product.