Gyn, tampon ?

colleen10 · May 2, 2003

Speaking not as a nurse but as a woman have you ever tried O.B?

They are very tiney and no applicator.

You might have better luck with them.

As for the GYN exam, they really aren't that bad and go really quick.

Good Luck and I'm sure some other posters here can give you better clinical advice.

Col

**canoehead, BSN, RN** · May 2, 2003

You should go to a GYN by the time you are 20 anyway, but have you tried using a mirror to see what's going on down there? If you are a virgin try looking at the various types of hymen in web pics. Some would not accomodate a tampon without being partially broken.

http://www.f678.com/hymen.jpg

Disablednurse · May 2, 2003

Nolenurse, is the tampon difficult to get in, does it hurt to wear it? Just what is the problem? Do you have a difficult time with your menstruation? I was never able to wear tampons, even after I got married. I also had a lot of pain with my period. If the answer is negative to these problems that I have mentioned, you really need to see a gyn.

SmilingBluEyes · May 2, 2003

See your GYN before changing your protection. there MAY be a physical reason why you can't insert a tampon---a reason you cannot see. Also, like said above it is high time you had an exam anyhow to ensure your health. I know from personal experience tampons are only easy to insert when you relax and position them properly. You may need instruction on this. Either way, make an appt w/a GYN at your earliest convenience to have a complete pelvic exam. Good luck.

NICU_Nurse, BSN, RN · May 3, 2003

Personally, I always had problems with tampons (I'm 25 now) and just kind of gave up on them. I now use them only when I have to (swimming, vigorous activity, etc.) and use pads the rest of the time.

First of all, despite trying various sizes and brands, I found that only certain types of tampons fit me well. No matter how much I inserted it, certain brands just DID NOT sit right inside me, and I would go to sit down on a chair and actually feel a pinch or pressure if I tilted my pelvis a certain way. Turns out my pelvis is slightly tilted, which was creating sort of an obstacle- the tampons were totally straight. I, on the other hand, was not. :)

I HATED the OB tampons because they didn't have an applicator- tried them, couldn't stand the mess factor (didn't matter how long I washed my hands, could still smell it on me), and didn't slide in as easily. I loved the silk glide plastic applicators; made it so much easier!!

I could only insert them properly if I had one leg flexed and propped up on the sink counter- toilet was too low for my body, and otherwise they pinched (If I didn't insert them high enough).

But the worst part was that even when I used the regular tampons (vs. the super absorbent), I ended up completely dry down there- no moisture whatsoever. It was ALL sucked up by the tampon, leaving me dry and itchy and feeling like I had a yeast infection. Ick.

I agree- see your doctor. There's no reason to be afraid to go to the GYN, and you're certainly at the right age to do it (I've been going since I was 16). Until you do, though, if you still want to use tampons, I suggest that you lie on your back with a mirror. Prop your upper body with pillows, grab a box of tampons, a mirror (the kind that stands up on its own is best, I think), and practice away.

Definitely schedule an appointment ASAP with a GYN; you should become comfortable with your body, especially if you're sexually active or considering becoming sexually active. Take care of yourself!! No pelvic exam is a carnival ride (if yours is, I must have your doctor's number immediately!!), but it's really, really not that bad. It's a little uncomfortable at first, but they're over really quickly, and it hurts a hell of a lot more to give blood or get a shot or fall down and scrape your knee or have a raging boil on your butt than get a pelvic exam. It's more embarrassing than anything, and even that can be taken in stride. Trust me, ya 'aint got nothin' they haven't seen.

**canoehead, BSN, RN** · May 3, 2003

So Kristi, about that raging boil on your butt....TOO MUCH INFORMATION!

On another note, what about those guys that come in with the anal cysts that are deep and purulent. I don't know how a person could have a gaping wound and not feel it, and what about when they come back a month later WITH THE SAME THING??? Do they even wipe their butts?? Or do any cleaning down there? Or even have any shame about coming back for something so easily prevented?

Just my experience but it has always been guys, and some that you wouldn't guess had "issues" Not diabetic or generally unkempt. Guys, why is this? ( a homophobic thing about butt touching?) I really want to know.

NICU_Nurse, BSN, RN · May 3, 2003

Umm, first of all, it was an EXAMPLE, thank you. I was trying to think of something horrid. Simma'down nah.

Secondly...EWWWWWWWWW. Thanks for the visual.

nolenurse · May 3, 2003

Thanks everyone!

I will definitely make an appointment asap. Your words of comfort are greatly appreciated.

Anymore advice is great too, though.

**canoehead, BSN, RN** · May 3, 2003

Wash your butt before you go. and good luck, you'll be fine.:kiss

Disablednurse · May 3, 2003

Nolenurse, talk to your friends or someone you trust and let them tell you the names of some good gyns, they should be able to. Then pick from them.

NICU_Nurse, BSN, RN · May 3, 2003

Be sure to scooch down ALL the way on the table. If you don't, they use the BIG speculum. :devil: