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Do Tampons Hurt? Ways to Deal with Tampon Discomfort

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Are you thinking of switching to [tampons](/tampons)? Or have you tried one and not exactly had a good experience? You may be wondering why do tampons hurt or should a tampon feel uncomfortable. In this article, we will address the main questions, ‘do tampons hurt?’ and how to deal with any discomfort that you may feel while using one.

- [Why do tampons hurt?](#why-do-tampons-hurt)
- [Should a tampon feel uncomfortable?](#should-a-tampon-feel-uncomfortable)
- [Reasons why tampons could hurt you](#reasons-why-tampons-could-hurt-you)
- [How to insert a tampon correctly](#how-to-insert-a-tampon-correctly)
- [Tips to manage tampon discomfort](#tips-to-manage-tampon-discomfort)


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If you’re wondering ‘why does it hurt to put a tampon in?’ then you’ve probably not inserted, it right. While it is normal to feel some pressure when using it the first time, it should in no way hurt or feel uncomfortable when using it. If you still feel pain during or after tampon insertion, then something is not right and you may have not inserted it properly.


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<h2>Why do tampons hurt?</h2>

Should a tampon feel uncomfortable Card View

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When used correctly, you will hardly feel the tampon. Or even if you do feel its presence, it shouldn’t be painful or uncomfortable for the duration that you’ve worn it. That being said, each body is different and while some women may not feel the presence of a tampon or feel a little of it, others may feel it more. But it shouldn’t, at any point, induce any pain or feel uncomfortable at all.


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<h2>Should a tampon feel uncomfortable?</h2>

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Reasons why tampons could hurt you

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Here are some possible reasons why tampons could be causing pain or discomfort:

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<h3 class="bluetext">1. Tight vaginal opening or vaginismus</h3> Some women have a condition known as vaginismus, which causes an involuntary tensing of the vagina. It is common for women to experience it while having sexual intercourse, inserting a tampon or getting a pelvic exam. Vaginismus is known to cause discomfort when inserting a tampon.

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<h3 class="bluetext">2. If your hymen is still intact, that might also be the reason why you struggle when inserting a tampon.</h3> It’s imperative to know that inserting and using a tampon won’t break your hymen or take away your virginity. But you may find it difficult to use a larger tampon since your vaginal opening would be naturally tighter.

<br>
<h3 class="bluetext">3. If you haven’t inserted the tampon deep enough.</h3> This could mean that the tampon is halfway in and halfway out, resulting in discomfort at the vaginal opening.

<br>
<h3 class="bluetext">4. If you are inserting it at a wrong angle.</h3> Trying to insert it in a straight up, instead of an angle will not go deep enough. Consider laying on your back and aiming for the floor to get a feel for correct insertion.

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<h3 class="bluetext">5. Inserting a tampon is easier when your flow is at the heaviest.</h3> Else, you may need to use some lubrication for ease of insertion.


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<h2>Reasons why tampons could hurt you</h2>

How to insert a tampon correctly Card View

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The first thing to know is [how to put a tampon](/tips-and-advice-for-women/intimate-hygiene/how-to-use-a-tampon-step-by-step-guide) in without it hurting i.e. if you’re inserting it properly. If you’re new to using tampons or simply want to brush up on the basics, below are simple steps to insert a tampon.

<br>
1.	Wash your hands before you begin. Get into a comfortable position. You could also use a handheld mirror for visual cues. 
<br>
2.	Look for the vaginal opening, and first insert the applicator tip side. Push the plunger gently all the way in and then release the tampon inside the vagina. You can then remove the applicator and discard it.
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3.	When you want to remove the tampon, tug at the end of the tampon string and release the tampon. Dispose the tampon by wrapping it in toilet paper and throwing it in the bin.


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<h2>How to insert a tampon correctly</h2>

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Tips to manage tampon discomfort

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The below tips will help you minimise any discomfort that you may feel while using a tampon.

1.	Choose the right size of tampon. This will depend on the flow of your period. For instance, the flow during the first few days of your period is heavier, while toward the end of your period, your flow is lighter. <a href="/en-za/tampons/always-tampax-compak">[Always Tampax Compak tampons](https://always-africa.com/en-za/tampons/always-tampax-compak)</a> are perfect as they have variants in different absorbency levels starting from Lite and Regular to Super and Super Plus. Moreover, they come with a compact applicator for discretion, and a built-in protective skirt to help prevent leakage for up to eight hours. 

2.	Before inserting a tampon, take a few minutes to relax and be calm. Getting stressed will cause your muscles to clench, making it more difficult for you to insert the tampon.

3.	Figure out a comfortable position before inserting. Some prefer sitting while some prefer laying down. Find out what suits you best.

4.	The first few tries may not be comfortable but don’t worry. As you go about your day and walk around, the tampon will shift to a comfortable position. This will take a while and some tries but you’ll get there.

5.	If you find the tampon too dry while inserting or your flow isn’t too heavy to keep it lubricated, try using some form of lubrication for ease.

6.	If you feel your vaginal opening is tight, you could try doing some pelvic floor exercises to try and help your pelvic floor muscles to relax. 

Finally, if none of these options work, you may want to contact your doctor. And don’t worry, condition such as vaginismus makes wearing tampons difficult and uncomfortable. So, if a similar condition or reason prohibits you from using tampons, then you always have other options such as the safe and reliable [sanitary pad](/sanitary-pads) to fall back on.

Stay well prepared for your next period by tracking it on Always [Period Calculator](/period-calculator).


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<h2>Tips to manage tampon discomfort</h2>

__FAQs__
<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#002abb">1. Why does my tampon feel like it's hitting a wall?</h2>
If you feel your tampon is hitting a wall and wondering, ‘why does it hurt to put a tampon in?’ then it could be because you’re pushing the tampon in the wrong direction or at a wrong angle. Trying to insert it in a straight up, instead of an angle will not make it go deep enough. Consider laying on your back and aiming for the floor to get a feel for correct insertion.<br>

<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#002abb">2. Should putting in a tampon hurt?</h2>
It’s normal to feel some pressure when inserting a tampon for the first time. But with a few attempts, you should be able to insert it without it hurting you. If it is still hurting, then you’re not inserting it properly.<br>

<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#002abb">3. Should a tampon feel uncomfortable at first?</h2>
When used correctly, you will hardly feel the tampon. Or even if you do feel its presence, it shouldn’t be painful or uncomfortable for the duration that you’ve worn it.<br>

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__Disclaimer:__

Please note the date of the last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from your doctor or other qualified clinician. Always is committed to ensuring that all of our products meet rigorous safety standards; [Always pads prioritize safety](/about-us/inside-always-pads-safe), protection and comfort of its consumers. 


Are tampons supposed to be uncomfortable? Why do tampons hurt? If you’re grappling with these questions, this article is for you. Know the ways to manage tampon discomfort.