Dear curious_blonde,

Manufacturers of tampons recommend that they be used only for menstruation. Tampons are very absorbent, and wearing a tampon when you don't have your period might lead to uncomfortable vaginal dryness.

Tampons fit into most women's vaginas, but sometimes girls who are first beginning to use them have trouble inserting them. It's easier to insert a tampon when you are relaxed. It's also helpful to remember that the vagina doesn't go straight up into the body — usually it angles toward the small of the back. So, when a girl inserts a tampon, it's best for her to relax her vaginal muscles and angle the tampon a little bit toward the small of her back to make insertion easier.

If a girl wants to practice inserting tampons, it's a good idea for her to do it while she has her period, because menstrual flow lubricates the vagina and makes insertion easier. Also, it sometimes helps to hold the vaginal lips open for easier insertion.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.