Where's the string...?! Or how to properly remove a tampon?

After how long should a tampon be removed?

It is very important to keep track of the time you have inserted the tampon. It is recommended to remove the tampon after 4 to 6 hours of use . If you make sure to always have a tampon in a size (with a degree of absorbency) appropriate to the intensity of your period, you will avoid unpleasant surprises in the form of stains on your underwear, and removing the tampon should not be painful (a well-soaked tampon is easy to remove).

You can read more about where to throw away used tampons here .

How to properly remove a tampon?

First of all, sit comfortably on the toilet with your legs slightly apart. If you used a tampon with the right absorbency level and a few hours have passed since insertion, the tampon should be soaked enough to be easy, quick and painless to remove. So try to relax – tense muscles can make it difficult to remove the tampon ( we explain anatomical issues here ) .

Control your breathing , focus on something completely unrelated to your period. Let your mind wander to carefree vacations or plans for the upcoming weekend. Anything but the question: "how do I take a tampon out?" :) If you need to pee, just do it - then the muscles will relax on their own (read more about peeing with a tampon here ).

In the next step, pull the string of the tampon away from you . The tampon should come out "smoothly", easily, with no or only a little resistance. You can use a piece of paper to quickly wrap the used tampon (in case it starts to drip a little).

Also check out our instructions: how to insert a tampon ? and how to choose tampons ?

What to pay attention to?

If you feel pain or discomfort when removing the tampon and the tampon is resistant , it may be too early to replace it (it has not absorbed enough fluids yet) or - if you have had it in for 6 hours or more - you should switch to a smaller tampon size or just a pad .

How to remove a tampon without a string?

To remove a tampon without a string, you have to use your fingers. If you usetampons with a string and you notice during a visit to the toilet that the string is somewhere, you have to find it. And it is not a difficult task, because the tampon cannot go deep into your body ( more about it here ).

First of all, remove rings from your fingers (you can never be too careful!), wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, and make sure your fingernails are trimmed – this will minimize the risk of damage to the mucous membranes.

Then, assume the position that is most comfortable for you when inserting or removing the tampon (for example, you can sit, squat or stand with your leg resting on the toilet).

Insert two fingers into your vagina – it’s best to make “tweezers” with your thumb and index finger. You should be able to locate the tampon string and the entire tampon. If you can feel the string, pull on it and remove the tampon . If you can’t find the string, try to grasp the tampon with your fingers.

You can help yourself by working your muscles , just like when taking a dump – the “push” should help move the tampon closer to the exit. Remember that the vagina is stretchy , so you can insert your fingers really deep without worrying about major damage (at most abrasions, but if you have followed the rules mentioned earlier, nothing like that should happen).

Stringless tampons

There are stringless tampons on the market – these are usually small sponges that do not have a string at the factory. Their main task is to collect blood during intercourse – this is an option for people who are reluctant to have sex during their period . Other uses for such stringless tampons include playing sports or visiting a swimming pool or sauna.

How to remove a tampon without a string?

Exactly the same as in the case of removing regular tampons – we only have our own fingers at our disposal. However, this is a slightly more difficult task (requiring practice) – these sponges are inserted much deeper than regular cotton tampons. Here, too, pressure plays a large role , which helps to move the tampon towards the exit.

Have you ever had a leak? Find out how to avoid it in the article " Why does a tampon leak? "

What tools should I use to remove a tampon?

It is important not to use any tools to remove the tampon – whether with or without a string. Not only can forceps or tweezers cause an infection, but they are also dangerous and can cause harm to yourself .

The rule is simple: if you are unable to remove the tampon with your fingers, see a doctor who will remove the tampon safely.

If you have already faced a similar problem, you know what it feels like – it is easy to panic and your heart beats faster. In the meantime, to put it simply (and to write!), only peace can save us . You already know what to do, so act, because time is unfortunately not on your side ( read why here ).

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