learning to use tampons

[whyayepetal]

DD14 wants to be able to go swimming etcetera without being restricted by her periods. We have talked about using tampons, I have provided as much guidance as possible plus supplies (non applicator) but she is really struggling. Has anyone been through this with their DD's and found out what works? in anticipation

I have no idea about helping a teenager although I will have to soon but on a personal note the tampax with a plastic applicator is the only tampons I can use, I couldn't use tampons as a teen either I couldn't use any until I discovered the plastic applicator as an adult.

I always found the applicator ones easier when I was younger and still do now, actually - they kind of slot it into place for you. Might be worth a try? Tampax Pearl have a much smoother and small applicator than the usual cardboard ones that regular Tampax have, which I would imagine would be easier to use.

My mum bought me some KY jelly when I first started using them, I am so grateful to her!!

applicator first as a teenager then swap to non-applicator later.

I found the applicator ones easier as a teen too. I would buy a small box of all mini tampons on the market to let her try. Could you go over the pictures on the leaflet with her? She may be trying to insert it at the wrong angle.

Mine hasn't tried them yet, she's got them there when she wants to try them. The one tip I've given her is that a bit of Vaseline helps (I found for myself it made all the difference when I started trying to use them)

Another vote for tampax pearl

I've never used a non applicator tampon - is there a reason why you haven't bought applicator ones? I think they'd be easier.

I agree applicators are easier and some kind of lubricant. Also what position is she using? I could only manage to fit a tampon whilst squatting when I first learnt as a teenager

Great your supporting your daughter with this.. Mine was too embarrassed to discuss these things. Tampons are so much easier. Try them on the day of heaviest flow. Get tampax mini or similar until she gets used to it. Yes to applicator.

I will always be grateful to my college friend who kept at me to try the until I got used to them.

I agree with others, applicator tampons are easier if you start using tampons. Maybe get a few different ones. Definitely use KY jelly at first.

I think the key is that she doesn't feel rushed, eg is able to occupy the bathroom without interruption and also to put one feet on the closed toilet seat will make it much easier.

Maybe reassure her, it is just a matter of practice and in a little while it will be really easy.

I am sure you have already done this, but of course the one thing to be aware of with tampons is toxic shock syndrome, so it is extremely important that she changes tampons regularly (and obviously ensures she has clean hands).

I bought my dd a selection and she waited til she was home alone and practiced. Tampax pearl were here favourite ones- I think non applicator are a bit tricky for a beginner!

Another vote for tampax pearl. They are one of two things I am brand loyal for. (The other is Mitchum deodorant, in case you're interested!!)

Well I'm 46 and had 3 kids and I can't use them so don't be too hard on her!

Thanks for all the feedback guys. I gave her non-applicator simply because that's all I've ever used, and tbh wasn't sure how to explain applicator as I' ve never used them Next step, I'll try getting some of the applicator ones to try myself first, then suggest she has a go (once I've cracked it!!)

If I was you I'd get her some Pearl and KY or Vaseline, tell her to read the leaflet, advise her to try to relax about it and then butt out.

Don't overdo vaseline - it's fairly waterproof and if you use too much you may find the tampon doesn't absorb the flow.

It's very unlikely to be the case but occasionally a girl really can't use tampons because she has an unusually small vaginal opening/unusually rigid hymen. I mention this because I spent years and years stressing about how agonising it was when I tried and I couldn't get anywhere with it - every time my mother said I just needed "to relax". Finally at 17 (having started my periods at 11) I asked my father (a doctor) about it and he said immediately that sometimes there is this problem and arranged for me to see a gynaecologist (privately, for speed). I had the world's most minor operation and was thereafter able to use tampax. I actually knew one other girl at school who had the same experience.

So definitely get her to try the Pearl applicator ones but if she struggles without success for months it's probably worth a medical check.

I find the applicator (compak) ones easiest by far.

BUT I didn't actually manage tampons until I'd lost my virginity - it hurt too much before that.

I'm nearly 41 & can't use non applicator !