HEALTH

I’m so scared to use a tampon. Does it hurt to put it in? What if it gets lost or stuck inside me?

There are real benefits to tampons, so don’t write them off just yet. For one, you can say goodbye to messy, bulky pads, and chill at the pool with no worries. First, read the instructions that come in the tampon box. When you’re ready to insert the tampon into your vagina, it might be easier to sit down rather than stand up. Be patient and try to relax. Getting tense and nervous won’t make the process any easier (your muscles will contract). If you want, use a hand mirror so you can see what you’re doing.

You can even use a bit of lubricating jelly, like Aquagel, on the tip of the tampon. It’s not supposed to hurt so, if it does, you probably inserted it incorrectly. Be patient, and keep trying. Once you’ve put it in right, you won’t feel a thing. As for the tampon getting lost or stuck, that’s very rare. “It’ll come out when you tug the string,” says Dr. Hillard. “A little discomfort is possible when you remove it, because the tampon can dry the sides of the vagina since it absorbs fluid.” And because the vagina muscles contract, you need to be relaxed to remove it. Start with a slim tampon until you’re comfortable using them.

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by GL | 2/1/2016