HEALTH

If you just started using tampons, it is *totally* normal to run into some issues. First, follow the steps below—then, if you're still having probs, read on for what might be causing your tampon troubles. 

1. Wash your hands. 

2. Sit in a comfortable position on the toilet with your legs open.

3. When you're ready, insert the tampon into your vagina. If you are having trouble finding your vagina, try propping one leg up onto the toilet seat in order to get a better angle.

4. Push the tampon inside, using the applicator or your finger. If it hurts, then you might not have inserted it deep enough. Don't sweat - just try again with another tampon. 

If you've gone through the process repeatedly with no success (sometimes it takes a couple of tries especially if you're a newbie), here are some things to consider:

You might need a smaller size. 
When it comes to tampons, you want to start small and gradually switch to a larger size when you feel more confident and secure. Pro tip: Look for slim or light tampons at first and then move to regular. 

You might not be relaxed enough.
Vaginal muscles, like any other muscles, can become tense. Before you insert a tampon, relax your breathing and your body. After two or three attempts, if you still can’t insert one, take a break and try again later. 

You might have a medical issue called vaginismus. 
Vaginismus is actually much more common than you might think, and it's a condition which causes the vagina to tighten. Which makes inserting tampons extremely painful. Fortunately, vaginismus can be treated through therapy and certain exercises. Talk to your doctor if you think you might be experiencing this condition and find out what treatment is best for you. 

Do you have any tips/questions when it comes to inserting tampons? Let us know in the comments below!

Photo credit: We Heart It.

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by Frannie Rooney | 8/11/2017