Never used a tampon before? We can help

Now, if you have never tried using a tampon before, not to worry - we are here to take you through the process.

Firstly…a little trivia…why is it called a digital tampon? It's because you use your digits to insert it! Now that we got that out of the way, please read this page carefully before using Lotus.Eco tampons.

Before using a tampon, it's good to understand its components. A tampon has two parts: the tampon itself and the string. The tampon portion will have different levels of absorbency to absorb your menstrual flow. Understand your flow and how it changes over the course of your period is helpful.

The string exists to allow for easy removal when required.

Our tampons strictly adhere to Australian and International medical device standards.

A Tampon with applicator has three parts: the barrel, the grip and plunger. Cardboard or plastic, every applicator will have the same parts. We provide detailed instructions on how to insert an applicator tampon when you purchase a pack of our applicator tampon range. The full range of products can be found in our online shop.

We currently only provide digital tampons. But if you're looking for applicator tampons, check back soon as we're slowly expanding our range.

*Please wash your hands before and after inserting a tampon*

How to insert a digital tampon

Step 1. If this is your first time, be patient, relax and breathe.

You may need a little practice and it may be helpful to try them for the first time on a heavy day of your period when the vagina will be well lubricated as this will help with insertion. You don't have to worry about your tampon falling out because it's held in place by strong muscles at your vaginal opening. The tampon can't go too far in either because the opening of your cervix (at the upper end of the vagina) is far too small to allow a tampon to pass through. Getting your period can be confusing and overwhelming sometimes.

Step 2. Check absorbency of the tampon.

Checking the absorbency of the tampon will ensure you have the correct tampon for your expected menstrual flow. We recommend that you use the lowest absorbency tampon for your expected menstrual flow.

 Step 3. Remove the wrapper.

• Tear away the gold coloured tear string and unwrap the bottom half of the plastic cover. Carefully unwind the tampon string (see picture 1).
• Hold the string firmly, removing the remaining piece of the plastic cover, trying not to handle the main part of the tampon more than you need.
• Try to avoid placing the unwrapped tampon on any surfaces.

Step 4. Breathe, relax, chill.

• Breathe out and relax, this will relax your muscles and enable easier access to your vaginal opening.
• We definitely recommend music to help with this too!

Step 5. Prepare the tampon for insertion.

Hold the tampon at the string end. Adopt the position most comfortable for you. This can be sitting down with knees apart or standing up with one leg on the toilet, chair or the edge of a safe surface.

• With your free hand spread open the folds of your skin at your vaginal opening. Relax, and as you breathe out, gently push the tampon inside your vaginal opening making sure you slant it towards your lower back as opposed to directly upwards. You may feel some resistance when you try this which, is perfectly normal. It is the pressure of your muscles which help hold the tampon in place once fully inserted (see picture 2).

• Once the tampon is partly inside your vaginal opening, place your middle finger on the bottom end of the tampon and use your middle finger to guide the tampon fully inside your vagina, again, in a slanted direction towards your lower back. You may have to push your fingers inside to its full extent to ensure the tampons sits in the central part of your vagina (see picture 3).
• The tampon string should be left to hang out of your body to allow for safe and easy removal when required (see picture 4). How much tampon string should be left out? That depends on the depth of your vaginal canal. The deeper it is, the less tampon string you'll see outside of your body. Ideally, there should be enough for you to grab a hold of so you can pull the tampon out when required.

Step 7. Breathe, relax, chill.

If the tampon is not cooperating, don’t stress, it may take a few attempts. Getting used to this, even if it is not your first time, can take a few attempts, so don't worry and don't give up.

Step 8. Remind yourself to breathe and focus on relaxing.

How do I know if I have inserted the tampon correctly?

• There are no nerve endings in the central part of your vagina. This means that you will not be able to feel a correctly inserted tampon. If you do feel any discomfort or pressure, the tampon may not have been inserted correctly or may not be inserted far enough inside your vagina
• If this happens, breathe, relax and try to push the tampon further inside to the central part. If this does not work, simply wait until the tampon has become saturated so that you can easily remove it and start again.
• Don't try and insert a tampon if it hurts to do so.
• Don't insert more than one tampon at a time.

How do I know when to change the tampon?

• The best time to change the tampon is when it has become saturated enough. You will be able to tell this by gently tugging on the string. If the tampon does not move, this means it is not saturated and is still held by your muscles. If the tampon moved easily, this means that it is saturated and it's time to change.
• Your daily flow will help you understand how often you need to change your tampon. This may be anywhere from 3-6 times a day.
• Don't leave your tampon in for more than 8 hours.

How do I remove the tampon?

• Simply pull on the string at the same angle at which the tampon was inserted. If the tampon moves easily, process with removal. If not, and if it’s been 8 hours since it was inserted, relax, breathe and attempt to remove the tampon.
• Once removed, check to ensure that the tampon is intact. If the tampon is not intact, consult your doctor promptly for advice and assistance.
• If you have trouble locating the string for your tampon, it can usually be reached from a squatting position.
• Always ensure to remove the current tampon before inserting a new one.

How do I dispose of the tampon and the wrapper?

• In the interest of the environment and sustainability, the most responsible and respectful way to dispose of a tampon is to place it in something biodegradable and dispose of it in the garbage or a sanitary disposal unit. Toilet paper or facial tissues usually work well.
• Our tampons are not yet flush-able, but we are working on it. In the meantime, please avoid flushing tampons and wrappers down the toilet as it may cause blockages in the sewerage system.

Ok, my tampon is in, but I’ve heard it may be associated with Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).

What is Toxic Shock Syndrome and how does it occur?

• You may have heard various things about Toxic shock syndrome. It is rare. Be vigilant, but not alarmed.
• Toxic shock syndrome is a rare complication of infection from bacteria. TSS occurs when the body responds to toxins produced by a type of bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus or Staph). Staph is a common bacteria that live on the skin, in the nose and respiratory tract, and occasionally in the vagina, without causing harm.
• In certain circumstances, these bacteria can overgrow, producing large amounts of the TSS toxin that sets off an uncontrolled inflammatory response, resulting in a sunburn-like rash, redness of the eyes, tongue and throat, and peeling of the skin on the palms and soles.
• In the case of tampon use Staph can produce toxin in the vagina which, is absorbed from there into the bloodstream, a person who is not resistant to the toxin may become ill.

Tampons do not cause Toxic Shock Syndrome

• TSS can affect anyone. It is more common among women when they are menstruating, but there is no evidence that tampons cause TSS. It is caused by bacteria.
• However, tampon use has been associated with an increased risk of TSS. Although TSS can occur with the use of tampons of any absorbency, the risk increases with the use of tampons of higher absorbency.
• Please note that tampons are not sterile and neither are your hands or vagina. Tampons, while containing very small amounts of bacteria normally present in the air, have not been shown to carry the bacteria which causes TSS.

Who is at risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome?

• Most people develop resistance to the toxin, hence why it is so rare, and in these people, there is no harmful effect.
• TSS isn’t strictly related to tampons. The contraceptive sponge and the diaphragm, two types of birth control methods, have been linked to TSS. It also can affect someone who has any type of Staph infection, including pneumonia, an abscess, a skin or wound infection, the blood infection septicaemia, or the bone infection osteomyelitis.
• TSS can occur in both males and females of any age but is more common in young women who use tampons during their period.

What are the symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome?

The symptoms of TSS may begin suddenly and are similar to the 'flu'. Early recognition and treatment of these symptoms is very important and can usually prevent serious illness.

• Feeling very ill, headache, muscular pains
• High fever and chills, usually 39 C (102 F) or higher
• Vomiting, diarrhea, or both
• Fainting, dizziness, weakness, or confusion
• Sunburn-like rash

What must I do if I think I may have Toxic Shock Syndrome?

• If you feel, during or shortly after your period, that you have any of the warning signs or symptoms of TSS, REMOVE THE TAMPON AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY.
• Remember, it is important to let the doctor know that you are/have been using tampons.
• If you have ever had TSS, you should not use tampons until you have discussed the matter with a doctor. You may not have developed resistance to the toxin and could get TSS again.

Precautions for tampon use

There are several ways you can help lower your chance of developing TSS, these include:

• Washing your hands before and after inserting a tampon
• Changing a tampon every 4 to 8 hours
• Using low absorbency tampons if possible
• Alternating tampons with sanitary towels every so often during your period
• Changing the tampons as often as advised on the pack
• Never inserting more than one tampon
• Making sure you remove the last tampon at the end of your period
• Inserting a fresh tampon when going to bed and removing it when waking.
• Keep cuts and surgical abrasions clean and change dressings often
• Ask a doctor if it is okay to use tampons if you have recently given birth, had a caesarean section, a miscarriage, an abortion or any operation on your reproductive system.

Where can I get more information about TSS?

• For more information on TSS see www.toxicshock.org.au, www.healthdirect.gov.au/toxic-shock-syndrome or check out our website at www.lotus.eco

REMEMBER!

• Do not use tampons between periods or for non-menstrual discharge.
• Change your tampons every 4 to 8 hours.
• Tampons can be worn overnight for up to 8 hours.
• Always remove the last tampon at the end of your period.
• Do not flush the used tampon in the toilet.