Tampons themselves do not cause TSS. TSS is caused by bacteria, usually called Staphylococcus aureus. When a tampon is in your vagina, it creates a perfect environment for different types of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, to grow. The bacteria make a toxin that causes severe illness. Younger teens are less likely to have antibodies against the toxin made by these bacteria. You will probably never get TSS, but it’s good to know what the symptoms are and how to lessen your risk. But there’s actually not much science behind what makes one brand superior to another, according to Gianni Rodriguez-Ayala, MD, who works in obstetrics and gynecology at Northwell Health. “The two most important factors to consider when choosing a tampon are whether you feel comfortable and whether it offers the least absorbency possible, while providing the right protection,” she says.

There’s also this to consider, per Dr. Wider: “Some people who use tampons without applicators complain that they can feel the tampon, or it won't go in all the way.” Seven billion tampons are thrown out each year, and they're not going away any time soon as period products can take 500 to 800 years to decompose. Plus, the average menstruator uses around 11,000 tampons in their lifetime, which is why using organic tampons is a great way to reduce the impact on our environment.But Dr. Streicher notes that there is “a learning curve” with using these. “It’s not like you can get one of these, pop it in, and you’re off wearing your white pants,” she says. Once you get the hang of it, though, Dr. Streicher says a menstrual cup or disc is a good tampon alternative for heavier flow days and when you want to go swimming. 3: Period panties If you’re not able to insert a tampon after several tries, make an appointment with your health care provider. One reason for this is that you may have been born with a very small opening in your hymen, which prevents you from inserting tampons. This is true in only about 2% of teens, but it could be a problem. If you're concerned about pain, though, try buying light absorbency tampons. You'll have to change them more frequently, but they'll be slimmer and more comfortable. A good beginning tampon is Tampax Pearl Lite. You can also just get "junior" or "slim" tampons. Using a smaller sized tampon at first will help you get used to inserting them and they will also be easier to take out. You can buy heavier tampons later if you discover light absorbency doesn't work for you. Lastly, we made sure to prioritize tampons that have no fragrances or dyes, as well as those that have the most biodegradable materials possible. Make sure that the string hangs outside of your vaginal opening. Later, when you are ready to remove the tampon, hold the string and gently pull it downward until the entire tampon is out.

Sit or stand in a comfortable position. Some teens prefer to place one leg on the toilet seat or tub, while others prefer to squat down. After you find a position that is most comfortable for you, hold the tampon with the fingers that you write with. Hold the middle of the tampon, at the spot where the smaller, inner tube inserts into the larger, outer tube. Make sure the string is visible and pointing away from your body. Erica Montes, MD, Arizona-based, board-certified obstetrician and fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists While there are tampon options out there, experts caution against trying to create your own tampon with cotton pads or rolls. “There could be a concern with some retained products in there,” says Christine Greves, M.D., a board-certified ob/gyn at the Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies. Meaning, some of the cotton could get left inside you where there’s a risk it could lead to an infection. Getting ready: Before you insert the tampon, let’s review your anatomy so you know where to insert it. Women have improvised tampons and sanitary napkins for centuries, but the first modern commercially produced tampons were those marketed in the United States by Tampax from 1936. [2] These were based on prototypes developed by Earle Haas, which used a tube-within-a-tube cardboard applicator. In 1947 the German auto engineer Carl Hahn and lawyer Heinz Mittag commissioned Esser-Mittag to improve on this design by developing a "digital" tampon, meaning one without an applicator, that could be inserted using one's digits (fingers). [3] [4] [5] [6]

Buy tampons with applicators. Tampons come in two basic types: with applicators, or a plastic tube that will help you push the tampon up into the vagina. Having the help of an applicator will make life easier when you're first learning, so choose a box that includes them. (In the U.S., O.B. is the primary brand that sells without applicators––most other brands have them.) a b Kraus, Doris (7 March 2010). "60 Jahre o.b.: 'Ein Job für eine Frau'" ("o.b. 60th anniversary: 'A job for a woman'"). Die Presse. Retrieved 11 December 2016 (in German). Buy tampons. As you've probably already seen in the grocery store, tampons come in a variety of types and sizes. Here's what's easiest for your first time: [6] X Trustworthy Source US Food and Drug Administration U.S. government agency responsible for promoting public health Go to source