#AskHauterfly: How To Use A Tampon?

#AskHauterfly: How To Use A Tampon?

There is no way in hell that we will ever forget the first time we got our period. It’s the day we suddenly felt a lot more mature and like were ready to take on the world, while our mothers were a little teary eyed, all set to shower us with their knowledge about menstruation, in hushed voices. It is only later that we realise that it is a pain, (not in the ass ) in the vagina.

 

How To Use A Tampon_Hauterfly

 

And something that has no option but to be by our side (besides mood swings and tea), month after month, are sanitary pads and tampons. Yes, I said tampons. No, it is not a curse word.

You know how we have to hide the sanitary napkins like they are bombs when we’re rushing to the bathroom to change? Well, a tampon is worse. While India is ever so slowly getting used to the fact that women bleed and that it is indeed natural, the fact that we may use a tampon to stop that flow is bizarre to many. Like, how can we insert something in our body that is perfectly in sync with the way our bodies function, right?

Contrary to myths, these little gadgets are hygienic, keep us clean, and are way more comfortable than a pad. The reason we’ve been using the latter more often is because that’s what our mums taught us, who were taught by their mothers, and so on. But if you’re ready to take the plunge into the tampon world (and we suggest you do), then you need to keep reading.

 

How To Use A Tampon_Hauterfly

 

Here are some interesting facts that will clear up the clutter in your head about this feminine hygiene product and should make you more open to the idea of using one.

1. You can go for a swim, wearing one, when you are on your period! Time to get rid of those lame, shitty excuses.

2. You don’t lose your virginity by using one. That really, actually, truly only happens when you have sex. I promise.

3. It soaks up blood of any kind and not just the menstrual one. Next time you’re around someone who’s been cut, stabbed, or shot, use a tampon to stop the bleeding. Amazed? Me too!

4. It is available in India. Every medical store has them and a few shopping sites too. You can purchase one here.

5. You cannot lose them down there. Your cervix is too small for a tampon to enter your body and roam around. Yes, you may forget that you put them in your vagina, but for that you need reminder pills, nothing else.

Now that you are a little more enlightened about tampons, watch the video below to learn how to use them — it may take a while to get used to, especially for first timers. Initially, it may hurt, so try different positions to get it in, but once you get the hang of it, it’ll be a breeze. Just remember that our body has 3 holes — the pee hole, the poop hole, and the vagina hole, which is where you insert the tampon, okay?

 

 

Not everything is good and even tampons have their cons. Firstly, don’t keep them in for a long time as you might get prone to TSS, which is Toxic Shock Syndrome caused by the fibres of the tampon and can prove fatal. Don’t worry it is not that prevalent, but be safe and keep changing the tampon every 3-4 hours.

There is a lot of variety, so choosing the correct one will be about some trial and error. But go for what suits you best, a non-applicator one or the applicator kind. Be careful as they can dry you up quickly and get infectious if your flow is minimum. They are non-biodegradable, so there’s nothing you can do on that front, except maybe opt for a menstrual cup.

 

How To Use A Tampon_Hauterfly

 

And they are a little expensive. Again something that the government has to think about, but they don’t have uterus, so guess they don’t care.

All in all, give it a shot if you haven’t already, and stop running away from them. They may look like sperm, but are really much better for you. Trust me.

Japleen Kaur

Hauterfly's Lifestyle writer and resident Potterhead. In love with boxes, diaries, food, and conversations. Always in a state of fernweh. (Don't know what that means? Search the site for more!)

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