What You Will Need
Before you begin, there are a few items you will need to make sure you have on hand. First, you will need to have a tampon. Tampons come in all sizes, so make sure you choose the right one for your needs. You will also need a clean, dry surface, such as a toilet seat or countertop, to place the tampon on before inserting it. Finally, you will need some lubrication, such as a water-based lubricant, to help the tampon slide in more easily.
Wash Your Hands
Before you begin, it is important to make sure your hands are clean. It is recommended to wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. This will help to prevent any bacteria from getting into your vagina and causing an infection. After you have washed your hands, make sure to dry them off thoroughly with a clean towel.
Find a Comfortable Position
You will need to find a comfortable position in order to insert the tampon. It is recommended to try standing up with one foot on the toilet seat or bathtub, or sitting on the toilet with your legs spread apart. You can also try lying down on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Whichever position you find most comfortable, make sure you can relax and that your muscles are not tense.
Open the Tampon
Once you have found a comfortable position, you can begin to open the tampon. Most tampons come in a plastic wrapper, so you will need to tear this off. Some tampons will also have a small string attached to them, so make sure to pull this off as well. Once the wrapper and string are removed, you can unwrap the tampon and discard the wrapper in the trash.
Apply Lubricant
Next, you will need to apply some lubricant to the tampon. This will help to make insertion easier and more comfortable. You can use a water-based lubricant such as KY Jelly or Astroglide. Alternatively, you can use a small amount of saliva. Make sure to apply the lubricant to the entire length of the tampon, not just the tip.
Insert the Tampon
Once the tampon is lubricated, you can begin to insert it. Start by gently inserting the tampon into your vagina, using your index finger to guide it in. Make sure to insert the tampon at a slight angle, pointing towards your lower back. You should not feel any pain or discomfort while inserting the tampon. If you do, stop and try again. Once the tampon is inserted all the way, you may feel a slight tugging sensation. This is normal.
Check the String
Once the tampon is inserted, make sure to check the string. The string should be hanging outside of your vagina, so you can easily remove the tampon when it is time. If the string is not hanging outside of your vagina, you may need to insert the tampon a little bit further or try using a different size tampon.
Change Your Tampon Regularly
Once you have inserted the tampon, it is important to remember to change it regularly. Depending on how heavy your flow is, you may need to change it as often as once every 4-8 hours. It is also important to make sure to never leave a tampon in for more than 8 hours as this can increase your risk of developing a serious infection.