How do I use a tampon?

Many women (and transgender men who have not undergone genital surgery) choose to use pads when they first experience their periods. Pads are less intimidating than tampons; they're easier to apply and remove. However, tampons are often less messy than pads. They're quieter to open, and they're a little more reliable when it comes to leakage.

Tampons should be changed every two to five hours, depending on how heavy your menstrual flow is. Please understand that your menstrual flow can change throughout your period. Monitor how heavily you bleed each day so you know how long you should go between tampon changes.

Ensure your hands are clean before inserting the tampon. Introduction of unwanted bacteria to the genital area can cause discomfort and disease, such as urinary tract infections (UTI's), which are more common in women than in men.

Remove the tampon's wrapper, starting at the thinner end of the tampon. Squat or spread your legs at least shoulder-length apart. Removing your bottom attire entirely can make this easier; so can putting one leg on the lid of the toilet. Grip the bottom of the insertion site of the tampon (where the thick portion meets the thin portion) with your thumb and middle finger. Gently push the thick portion of the tampon into the vagina. It may slide in easier if you hold open your labia with your other hand. Some vaginas and uteri are tilted within the body. Try pushing the tampon toward your belly-button rather than toward your back to make the insertion easier.

When the thick portion of the tampon is completely inside the vagina, maintain your grip on the bottom and slowly push on the thin portion of the tampon. This will push the cotton tampon into the vagina and allow you to pull the plastic applicator out of the body.

Walk around a little in the bathroom to make sure the tampon is inserted comfortably. Try sitting on the toilet, too, to make sure you are comfortable in a sitting position. If you are uncomfortable, it's likely because the tampon was not pushed deeply enough into the vagina. It's okay to try a few times before getting the insertion right.

Do not flush the plastic applicator or the tampon wrapper. Wrap them both up in toilet paper if you're in a public/shared restroom, then throw them in a wastebin. 

It is not recommended that tampons are used while a woman is sleeping.