Tampons can be super convenient but for some people, using them can be painful or uncomfortable. 😣
Here are a few common reasons why tampons might hurt:
- Feeling anxious about inserting something into your body.
- First-time use or if you’re a virgin, your body may not be used to penetration.
- Incorrect placement: if the tampon sits too low in your vaginal canal.
- Vaginal dryness.
- An imbalanced vaginal flora, which can lead to irritation.
- Increased sensitivity after childbirth.
- Conditions like endometriosis can make tampon use more painful.
If tampon use causes consistent discomfort or pain, it’s totally okay to stop using them and try something else.
Disposable menstrual discs in silicone (like the ones from Cup&Co) can be a great alternative.
✅ Just as convenient as tampons (because they’re disposable), but often way more comfortable.
✅ They’re soft, flexible and suitable for all flows, even heavy ones.
✅ You can even have mess-free period sex while wearing them.
How to Insert a Tampon Without Pain
If you’re new to tampons or nervous about using one, here are some tips to help make it easier:
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Wash your hands 🧼 :To avoid introducing any bacteria.
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Relax 🧘 : Go somewhere private and calm, like your bathroom or the shower.
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Find a comfortable position : Try standing with one foot on the toilet, squatting in the shower, or sitting on the toilet with your legs slightly elevated.
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Insert the tampon slowly and gently : Once you’re relaxed, insert the tampon at a slight angle toward your lower back, not straight up.
You can also check out a step-by-step YouTube tutorial to guide you—whether you're using an applicator or not.
Pain When Removing a Tampon
Causes:
It's common to feel discomfort or pain when removing a tampon, especially if it's not fully saturated with blood. When the tampon is still dry, it can cause friction and irritation during removal.
This pain can also be caused by vaginal dryness, which is often made worse by the absorbent nature of tampons.
How to Avoid Pain When Removing a Tampon
Here are a few tips to make removal more comfortable:
- Wait a bit longer so the tampon is fully saturated but never exceed the recommended 6 hours of use.⏳
- Choose a smaller absorbency size if your flow is light. This helps the tampon become saturated faster and makes removal easier.
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If you experience vaginal dryness or continued discomfort, it may be time to try a different period product.
A disposable menstrual disc can be a great alternative, just as convenient as a tampon but much more comfortable. You can also opt for external protection like pads or period underwear.
Tampons Hurt When I Sit Down
If you feel lower abdominal pain or discomfort when sitting, it could be a sign that your tampon isn’t positioned correctly, likely sitting too low in your vaginal canal. This can also lead to leaks with your tampon.
In that case, try pushing the tampon a bit further up. A tampon should sit about 1.5 inches from the vaginal opening. If the discomfort continues, remove the tampon and reinsert it to see if that helps.
If the pain feels unusual, intense, or persistent, remove the tampon right away and switch to a different type of period protection. If the discomfort doesn't go away, contact your doctor for advice.
It’s important to note that lower abdominal pain can have several causes, including conditions like endometriosis or, in rare cases, be an early symptom of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) like menstrual cup and disc. Always listen to your body.
Pain During Your First Time Using a Tampon
It's totally normal to feel nervous or tense when inserting something into your body for the first time. That stress can cause your vaginal muscles to tighten, making insertion more difficult or even painful.
If this happens, try to relax and give it another go later. Trust us, most of us have been there. The first few tries can be tricky, but it usually gets easier with time and experience.
However, if you've tried multiple times and still can’t use a tampon without pain, you might be experiencing vaginismus, an involuntary tightening of the vaginal muscles that can make penetration difficult or painful. If you think this might be the case, it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor or gynecologist who can help you find a solution.
In the meantime, you can use external period products like pads or period underwear.
Tampons Hurt Postpartum
After childbirth, it’s generally recommended to avoid using tampons until your postpartum period or "return of menstruation." This comes after your lochia (post-birth bleeding) has stopped and may be delayed if you're breastfeeding.
Once your period is back, you can technically start using tampons again (but talk to your doctor first).⚕️
That said, if tampons feel painful, it could mean your vaginal area is still healing and sensitive. In that case, it’s best to wait a little longer before trying internal protection.
Plus, your body changes a lot after pregnancy, your flow might be heavier, and tampons might not feel as comfortable as before.
That’s why many new moms switch to menstrual discs, which are available in disposable or reusable versions. These offer a softer, more flexible experience and can be more comfortable than tampons, especially during postpartum recovery.
Alternatives to Tampons: What to Use if Tampons Hurt
If tampons are causing you pain, don’t worry, there are better options out there for your body!
One of the best tampon alternatives is the disposable menstrual disc. It’s:
- ✅ Pain-free
- ✅ Suitable for all flow levels, even heavy periods
- ✅ Safe to wear during sex
- ✅ Just as convenient as a tampon (you throw it away after use!)
Or you can try menstrual cups and reusable menstrual discs, both are a great eco-friendly alternatives to tampons.
When to Talk to Your Doctor About Tampon Pain
If the pain is intense, persistent, or continues even after removing your tampon, it’s important to speak to a medical professional.
You should also be aware of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), a rare but serious condition linked to prolonged tampon use (usually over 6 hours). Watch out for these symptoms:
- 🌡️ Sudden high fever
- 💪 Muscle aches
- 🦠 Sore throat
- 🤢 Vomiting or nausea
- 💩 Diarrhea
- ☀️ Rash that looks like sunburn
If you experience any of these symptoms within 3–5 days of wearing a tampon for too long, remove it immediately and seek urgent medical care. 🏥
