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What is a Tampon and how does it work?

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Maintaining hygiene during periods and managing it well is important for a woman’s health. Sanitary pads and tampons are two of the most popular period products. However, while most of us know about sanitary pads and how to [choose the right menstrual pad](/tips-and-advice-for-girls-and-parents/choosing-a-pad/how-to-choose-the-right-menstrual-pad ), not everyone is familiar with what a tampon is. Read on to know more about tampons, what it looks like and how it functions.

- [What is a tampon?](#what-is-a-tampon)
- [What does a tampon look like?](#what-does-a-tampon-look-like)
- [Do tampons hurt?](#do-tampons-hurt)
- [Can teenagers use tampons?](#can-teenagers-use-tampons)
- [How to Insert and Remove a Tampon correctly?](#how-to-insert-and-remove-a-tampon-correctly)
- [How to use an applicator free tampon?](#how-to-use-an-applicator-free-tampon)
- [Things to remember when using a tampon](#things-to-remember-when-using-a-tampon)


What is a tampon? card view 

<br>For the uninitiated, a tampon is a product used to manage periods. They absorb blood from within the vagina. You may now be wondering, ‘how do tampons work?’ Well, here’s your answer – a tampon is made out of an absorbent material that is pressed tight into a small cylindrical shape. The tampon is put inside the vagina where it absorbs the blood before it comes out.	

Some [tampons](/tampons) come with an applicator, made either out of plastic or cardboard, which helps in inserting a tampon inside the vagina. You also get tampons without applicators, and you need to use your fingers instead to place it.


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<h2>What is a tampon?</h2>

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What does a tampon look like? Card View

<br>If you’ve never used a tampon before, you may assume that a tampon comes in a single piece. However, a tampon has several parts which we have explained in detail below:
1.	The main component being the tampon itself which is a small cylinder usually made of cotton, rayon, or organic cotton. This material is compressed and when it gets wet, it expands.

2.	The part that extends outside of the vagina is the string. It is meant to help in easily removing the tampon.

3.	Most tampons come with an applicator. It is the part that surrounds the tampon helping you to ease it in place. 

4.	The plunger is the part that helps push the tampon outside of the applicator. 


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<h2>What does a tampon look like?</h2>

Do tampons hurt? Card view

<br>One of the first thoughts that come to mind when you think of inserting an object, you’re not familiar with into your vagina, is whether they hurt? In this case, it would be tampons. The fact is that when a tampon is inserted correctly in the vagina, you’ll barely realise it’s even there. That said, each body is different and so, some might feel it more than others, and that’s okay. But this feeling should be a feeling of knowing something is within you, not a feeling of pain. So, if you feel pain or extreme discomfort after wearing a tampon, something’s not right or you’ve not worn it correctly.

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<h2>Do tampons hurt?</h2>

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<br>There are many misconceptions surrounding tampons, especially when it comes to teenagers using them. However, using tampons is completely safe for girls, even teenagers, if they are comfortable using them. Tampons are especially great if you’re involved in physical activities and swimming.  

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<h2>Can teenagers use tampons?</h2>

How to Insert and Remove a Tampon correctly? Card View

<br> If you’re new to using a tampon or need a refresher on how do tampons work, here’s a detailed guide on using tampons to manage your periods.

1.	Firstly, hygiene is key and since you will be touching and inserting your fingers inside your vagina, you must wash your hands. This will make sure that you don’t spread any germs inside your vagina.

2.	In order to insert a tampon, it’s not enough to just feel your way through. You should also have some visual cue. Get into a comfortable position and using a handheld mirror to have a good look at your vagina. 

3.	Next, it’s time to insert the tampon. 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.

4.	When you want to remove the tampon, again the first thing you need to do is wash your hands. 

5.	Get in a comfortable position, preferably the same that you chose before, as it will provide a direct path for tampon removal.

6.	Tug at the end of the tampon string and release the tampon. Then, dispose the tampon in a bin after wrapping it in toilet paper. 


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<h2>How to Insert and Remove a Tampon correctly?</h2>

How to use an applicator free tampon card view 

<br>The process for inserting an applicator-free tampon is quite similar to ones with an applicator. The main difference is that you would be using your fingers instead of an applicator. You need to use them to push the tampon inside your vagina, and you may have to push it farther than you think is enough for it to stay secure. Remember to wash your hands before and after touching your vagina.

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<h2>How to use an applicator free tampon</h2>

Things to remember when using a tampon card view

<br> When using tampons, there are some points that one must keep in mind. Some important ones are listed below:

- Remember to change your tampon after every four to six hours.
- You can sleep wearing a tampon, provided you remember to change it just before you get into bed and change it after six hours. Keeping an alarm for a tampon change is highly recommended in these situations.
- Never flush the tampon in a toilet, always dispose it in a bin.
- The string that hangs out should be pushed aside when urinating or passing stools. This is to avoid contamination via germs and prevent vaginal infections.
- Always keep a stock of tampons in your purse for emergencies. And since tampons are compact, they can easily fit in your bag. Try [ALWAYS Tampax Cardboard](/tampons/always-tampax-compak) tampons to stay clean and confident during your menstrual days. With quick-absorption channels and a cardboard applicator, as well as anti-leak skirt for additional back-up protection, these tampons assure you leak-free period protection for up to eight hours. 


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<h2>Things to remember when using a tampon</h2>

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__Takeaway:__<br>

Tampons are perfectly safe to use and with practice, you will be able to use tampons like a pro. However, if you experience pain or any kind of unusual symptoms, you must consult a doctor.

Now with Always Period calculator, calculate your next period and track your [ovulation period](/period-calculator).


__FAQs__
<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#002abb">1. What is a tampon?</h2>
A tampon is a product used to manage periods. It is made out of absorbent materials that can soak blood from within the vagina.<br>

<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#002abb">2. How to use tampons?</h2>
To use a tampon, first you need to wash your hands. Then, find your vaginal opening, and insert the applicator tip side. Push the plunger gently all the way in and then release the tampon inside the vagina.<br>

<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#002abb">3. Do you pee on tampons?</h2>
You can pee with a tampon and a tampon doesn’t affect urination. You must simply put the string aside when you urinate. There’s also no need to change your tampon every time you urinate.<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. 


What is a tampon? How do tampons work? These are the basic questions that a new tampon-user or someone who wants to begin using tampons would have. Know more on Always <Country_Name>