Here’s Why Tampons Should Be Applied at an Angle — Not Straight Up Into the Body

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There are several reasons why your tampon could be causing you discomfort, but inserting it at the wrong angle is a common culprit.

Fact: tampons actually aren't meant to be inserted straight up into the body. According to a TikTok video by Allison Rodgers, MD, an ob-gyn and fertility expert, you should be applying your tampon at an angle toward the rectum.

To give viewers more of an understanding, Dr. Rodgers grabbed a stemless wine glass and a tampon for a quick visual demo. If numbers resonate with you more, Playtex actually recommends applying its tampons at a 45-degree angle.

So why does applying a tampon at an angle matter? Turns out, it corresponds with the vagina's anatomy. In an article published by Tampax, Melisa Holmes, MD, ob-gyn and founder of Girlology, explained that the vagina has an angle to it, as opposed to leading straight up into the body.

Not inserting your tampon far enough into the vagina is another mistake that can make wearing the menstrual product uncomfortable. Dr. Holmes wrote the tampon should be inserted "tip to grip."

Remember, a tampon shouldn't hurt you, so if you're feeling uncomfortable or feel like it's coming out, consider removing it and trying again, or reach out to your ob-gyn for personalized advice and guidance.