this question is for girls or women only?

Question

Does it hurt to use a tampon.I like to swim alot but my period keeps on getting in the way.I'm thinking about using a tampon but is it bad?I mean doesn't it hurt?What happens if the string breaks.

Answer 1

It can feel a little odd at first, but you can get used to it pretty easily. Some tips, FWIW:
1. Tampons come in different sizes and absorbency. If you're just starting out, you may want to look for a "slim fit" type. I'd also stick with "regular", instead of "super" absorbency (just change more often), because the super-absorbent tampons were most associated with Toxic Shock Syndrome. (Read the package directions and use common sense; change a tampon at least once every 12 hours.)
2. Some have applicators, some are just inserted with the fingers. If you're a little squeamish about touching your body, an applicator type may be preferred. Personally, I'm cool with the no-applicator type, because occasionally a tampon needs readjusting a bit. (Pardon the bluntness: just stick your fingers in and do what's needed, then wash well. Use caution if you have long fingernails) Buy small travel packages of tampons until you find the type and style you like best.
3. Never had a string break in 35+ years of periods, but occasionally it does get tucked up inside the vagina. Just reach up and fish it out. Squatting on the toilet, like you're trying to have a bowel movement and bearing down, helps a little. BTW, a tampon *can't* get lost for good inside the vagina; the cervix is a nice effective barrier.
4. Other posters mentioned different ways for insertion; all work. About the only thing I'd add is to make sure the tampon is inserted *deeply* into the vagina. If it isn't all the way "in", it may catch on the ring of muscles at the entryway, which is uncomfortable--NOT at all sexy feeling. Take it out and start over with a fresh one. (A tiny dab of water-soluble lube, like KY jelly, around the vagina, may help.)
5. Try and relax, even though you may feel like a complete and utter nitwit while you're getting used to this. If it makes you feel any better, we all went through the same sort of gymnastics while adjusting to our bodies! (Shall I tell you about the old-fashioned menstrual napkins and belts we used to use, dearie?)
Good luck, and have fun swimming. When I was young (back when we lived in caves), girls on their periods were discouraged from swimming, tampons or not.....

Answer 2

From my experience it hurt the very first time, but I believe that was because I was so nervous and scared. Some tips I can give you: Don't be scared, it's a bit weird feeling at first but you do get used to it. I find they are actually more comfortable than pads and less messy. The first time you try it you should try a "slim fit" kind as they are smaller. Every box of tampons I have ever bought has had an instruction booklet in it. Take the time to read over it. I've never had a string break on me and I don't think it's a worry. But if it ever does, I'd seek medical attention. Don't be scared and Good Luck.

Answer 3

ok im a nurse and my daughter asked the same thing and i answered no it feels a lil weird the first time but the second day you dont even feel it i will recomend these for first time users:
http://www.walgreens.com/store/product.jsp?CATID=100230&navAction=jump&navCount=2&skuid=sku316341&id=prod16341

and put this with it just in case :http://www.walgreens.com/store/product.jsp?CATID=100573&navAction=jump&navCount=0&skuid=sku2340456&id=prod2340978

how to insert it:

1.Sit or stand in a comfortable position. Some women prefer to place one leg on the toilet seat or tub, while others prefer to squat down. After you find a position that is most comfortable for you, hold the tampon with the fingers that you write with. Hold the middle of the tampon, at the spot where the smaller, inner tube inserts into the larger, outer tube. Make sure the string is visible and pointing away from your body.


2.With your other hand, open the labia (the folds of skin around the vaginal opening) and position the tampon in the vaginal opening.


3.Gently push the tampon into the opening, aiming for the small of your back. Stop when your fingers touch your body and the applicator, or outer tube, is completely inside the vagina.


4.Once the applicator or outer tube is inside of you, use your index finger to push the inner tube (the tube where the removal string is connected) through the outer tube.


5.Once the inner tube is all the way in, use your thumb and middle finger to remove the applicator or outer tube. Make sure that the string hangs outside of the vaginal opening. Later, when you are ready to remove the tampon, hold the string and gently pull it downward until the entire tampon is out.

Answer 4

Girl, you gotten some good advice I agree with...
Tampons are not painful. I may take some time to get used to. They can be uncomfortable if not sitting in a good position but, just pull it out and try again. Applicators make it insert smoother, but, if you have tampons without try using a bit of Vaseline on the tip to help it insert easier. The good news, once inserted you most likely won't feel it at all. Great for swimming! I have never had a string break on me, I'm 27. Worst case sinerio, your ob-gyn doctor could remove it for you. But, I have never even heard of that happenening so don't stress, give them a try you'll get to swim more!

Answer 5

The tampon string willn't break. It is securely stitched in there. once you get used to them they are simple and don't hurt inserting.

First, buy a brand which has a plastic applicator, not a cardboard one. That makes things much easier. My favourite brand personally is Tampax compax.

Try to find ones which are designed for lighter days when you're just starting out. Yes, you'll probably have to change it more often, but they're very small so easiest to learn with.

When you're going to put one in, you have to relax. Get into a position where it will be easiest - most people suggest sitting on the toilet with your legs wide apart, or putting one foot on the edge of the bath. Personally, I find the easiest way is to crouch down with my knees wide apart.

Take the tampon in your right hand (assuming you're right handed). Spread the labia with your left hand and gently insert the tampon into the vagina. Push it in gently until the fingers of your right hand are touching the skin. That's the most important part - it has to be far enough in or it will be uncomfortable. If you're having trouble getting it in, try pushing slightly to one side or the other, or slightly rotating the tampon as you push it in. If you find it a bit dry going in, you could try using a bit of vaseline on the tip of the tampon.

Once the fingers of your right hand are touching the skin, use your left hand to push the applicator in all the way, as far as it goes - again, if you feel a bit of resistance try pushing slightly to one side or the other, then withdraw the applicator and the tampon should be in place.

If the tampon is in the right place, you won't be able to feel it inside you at all. It's difficult to get the hang of at first, but just keep trying, I promise you it's worth it!!! No more messy pads, no more gushing of blood when you sneeze or move position.......tampons are definitely the way to go!!! Good luck!

Answer 6

I have been using tampons since i got my period and I am now 36 and the string has never broke. They also come in different sizes, and never have they hurt. I feel more comfortable using tampons than pads. i got my first period when i was away at summer camp my cabin leader gave me some to use so that I could go swimming and so that nobody would know.

Answer 7

I personally think tampons were one of the greatest things ever invented! If you insert them properly, they do not hurt at all. You may have to practice some, though.

Don't worry about the string breaking, it won't. I've been using them for 20 years, and I've never had one to break. I also recommend the Tampax Tampons. I like the old, cardboard applicator. They're easier for me to maneuver, and they have a stronger cord. I've never had an 'accident' wearing a Tampon.

Honey, ditch those nasty pads!!! Yuck...you're missing out on so much!!!

Answer 8

Well i dont know what brand most these women used but.. honestly it will hurt if your just starting to use them.. especially if your not yet sexually active also.. just make you use it slowly and dont force it, it may even take a few tries before you even want to really use it... i started my period when i was 14 and didnt start to use tampons til i was 18 because i was so nervous about how they would hurt, but once your use to how to use them, you wont even notice them, you can do anything with it , swim, dance, go jogging... and dont worry the string will always be there, if you worry about it tug on it once you' have it in correctly, hope i helped a little!

Answer 9

Okay, sweetie! I am going to give it to you straight. I can't say much for pads, I think they are messy and uncomfortable. Tampons do not hurt, you just need to get the size " slim fit"or "regular". And follow the instruction in the box. I can almost guaruntee the string won't break. Just make sure that you check to make sure there is a string. Also make sure you read very closely about "toxic shock syndrom". Don't let that scare you away from using them, it is just that you have to use them correctly, changing them every 4 to 8 hours.

Answer 10

I have used tampons for over 20 years, the string has never broken. If you don't have a really heavy flow, use a smaller size tampon and you should have no problems. If you have a hard time getting the tampon in at first use some lubrication, but something water based like KY.