What To Do If your Tampon Hurts

May 12 2022 | Written by Nadia Ladak (She/Her)

Let’s face it, the first time you use a tampon can be slightly well…uncomfortable, if not painful. But, it doesn’t have to be this way! If you have a tampon in correctly, you should barely be able to feel it throughout the day. Whether you’re using the wrong size tampon, you have a light flow, or or you may not be inserting it deep enough, there are many reasons why using a tampon could be uncomfortable. We dive into some of the most common reasons in our blog: 5 reasons why your tampon may hurt. Today, we’re going to explore some of the ways you can insert a tampon without it hurting.

Do larger tampons hurt more?

Bigger tampons could hurt more if you have a condition such as vaginismus or endometriosis. Pain inserting larger tampons could also be because you’re using the wrong size tampon for your flow. When picking your tampon size, we recommend picking the lightest absorbency that will still be enough to absorb blood without it leaking for 4 hours.  

If you’re a beginner, we recommend using a light tampon. If it is fully saturated with blood within 4 hours, you can try a regular tampon next. If that’s fully saturated in less than 4 hours, try a super tampon. But remember - never leave your tampon in for longer than 8 hours as this can increase your risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome.

Is it ok to put vaseline on a tampon?

Vaseline wasn’t designed to be used as a lubricant and may increase the risk of developing a vaginal infection. Because the jelly sticks around longer than other lubes, it may invite bacteria which may lead to an infection. 

Can you use spit as a lubricant?

Similar to vaseline, spit also may increase your chance of developing an infection. Plus, spit dries up quickly so it won't provide significant lubrication!

Should I see a doctor?

In some cases, pain during tampon insertion could be due to a medical condition such as vaginismus, pelvic organ prolapse, endometriosis, or a deformed hymen. If you feel like you’re hitting a wall or have severe pain inserting a tampon, it would be best to consult a medical professional to learn more.

Is my tampon deep enough?

If your tampon is not inserted correctly or deep enough, you may experience some discomfort. After it is inserted, try walking around a bit to test its position. If you can feel your tampon, it may not be deep enough. For tips on inserting a tampon, check out our blog for a Step by Step Guide on How to Insert a Tampon.

Is it safe to use Marlow lubricant & tampons together?

Yes - at Marlow, we tested the safety of using our tampons and lubricant together for smoother insertion.

So lubricated tampons are thing?

At Marlow, we’re saying goodbye to dry a** tampons and hello to lubricated comfort. Inspired by our own experiences, we made a lubricant designed specifically for tampons.

So, how do you lubricate a tampon?

With the Marlow lubricant, we designed our bottle to lubricate our tampons with one easy mess-free dip. The opening is designed to evenly coat your tampon with each dip, so you don’t end up in an arts-and-crafts situation as you spread lubricant over a tampon with your hands in the bathroom stall! Simply open up the lubricant bottle's lid and dip your tampon in once. Voila, you're ready for a smoother tampon insertion experience!

So if you’re experiencing discomfort when inserting a tampon, check to see if you’re using the right size tampon, make sure it’s inserted deep enough, or you can even try using our water-based lubricant! If you still experience pain, speak with your doctor to learn about other options.