Step 1: Wash your hands.
Your vagina isn’t dirty, but clean hands are healthier for everyone! It’s always smart to wash your hands with soap and water before and after you insert a tampon.

Step 2: Get out your tampon.
Unwrap your tampon and make sure you know how it works! If you’ve never really looked at a tampon, it can look intimidating, but the tampon itself is INSIDE the applicator. The applicator makes it easy to get the tampon into your vagina. Some are plastic; some are cardboard; both can be used safely! The applicator has a larger, outer tube that holds the tampon, a “grip” area where you’ll hold it, and a smaller tube at the end with the string coming out. The smaller tube is actually a “plunger” that you use to push the tampon out when it’s time. Check out this diagram of a Tampax Pearl tampon to see each component.If you’re using a Tampax Pocket Pearl tampon (which is in a smaller, compact package), you’ll have to pull the plunger out until it “clicks” to make it work. If you don’t hear the click, the plunger won’t work to release the tampon.

Step 3: Locate your vagina.
We know you know it’s “down there,” but so many people have never really looked closely to be sure. So, now’s your chance. Grab a mirror and take a look to make sure you’re familiar with your vaginal opening where the tampon will go.

Step 4: Get comfy and ready to put the tampon in.
Find a comfortable position that lets you relax and still reach your vagina. Most people will sit on the toilet or stand while slightly squatting to insert a tampon, but you can also try lying down or propping one foot on a step or other raised surface (ex. the edge of your tub). The most important thing is to take a deep breath and relax all those muscles “down there.” If you squeeze your butt or the muscles around the vagina, it will not be as easy to insert the tampon.

Step 5: Set the tip.
Hold the tampon at the grip (the smaller part right above the plunger) and place the tip of the tampon at your vaginal opening.

Step 6: Use the right angle.
Once the tip is in place, aim the tampon toward your lower back, not straight up. Your vagina doesn’t go straight up into your body, it actually has a slight angle. Finding the angle that’s right for you can help make it feel more comfortable to insert, too.

Step 7: Tip to grip.
Now you’re ready. Slowly insert the tampon applicator from the tip, all the way to the grip. When you’ve inserted it far enough, your fingers on the grip will probably be touching your vulva (the external opening of your vagina).

Step 8: Plunge.
Once you’ve inserted tip to grip, it’s time to use your pointer finger or the other hand to push the plunger all the way and release the tampon.

Step 9: Remove the applicator.
After you’ve pushed the plunger in all the way, pull the applicator (both plastic pieces) out. The string will be the only thing left sticking out of your vagina.

TA DA!
You did it! Once you’ve inserted the tampon inside you, you’re done.

 Tampons are associated with toxic shock syndrome (TSS). TSS is a rare but serious disease that may cause death. Use for 8 hours maximum. The risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS) increases with higher absorbency. In order to reduce your risk of TSS, you should use the lowest absorbency that meets your needs.

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