6 best, easy-to-use tampons for beginners

To pad or to tampon? That is the ultimate female question. Choosing a staple period product is a personal decision and there’s absolutely no wrong answer. If you’ve chosen to take the tampon route, these beginner tampons will make life on your period a lot easier.

To a beginner, using a tampon may seem like a daunting task. But we assure you that once you get the hang of it, inserting a tampon is no big deal. Just so you know — the first time you try a tampon, you’ll probably go through a trial and error process in which you’ll waste a few tampons along the way. Don’t get frustrated. Just take a few deep breaths and carry on.

Perhaps the best thing about using a tampon is that fact that when inserted correctly you can’t even tell it’s there. Tampons are less bulky and less messy than pads, which are the biggest selling points for those who use them.

Beginners should start with slender tampons that come in plastic applicators. Cardboard applicator tampons, or tampons with no applicators at all, are usually less expensive and can be more environmentally friendly. But these varieties tend to be uncomfortable and difficult to use.

To help guide you through the process of choosing a first tampon, check out our suggestions below.

1Tampax Pearl Lites

Tampax brand tampons are great for beginners. They have a simple design that makes for comfortable insertion. We recommend practicing with the Lite version because they’re thinner. But once you have the hang of it, upgrade to regular and then to super, if necessary.

2U by Kotex Sleek Regulars

These Regular-sized tampons are great for newbies due to their smooth, easy-grip applicator design that ensures perfect placement.

3Playtex Gentle Glide 360°

If you’re one for simplicity, the Playtex Gentle Glide tampons might be your perfect match. They are comfortable to use and their 360° absorbent tampon keeps you leak-free and dry.

4Tampax Radiant Regular

With a sleek and easy-to-use applicator, Tampax Radiant promises that you’ll remain 100% leak-free. These guys are similar to the above U by Kotex Sleek with their easy-grip design.

5U by Kotex Fitness

If you play sports, these tampons will score high on your leaderboard. Not only will they give you great protection from leaks, but these U by Kotex Fitness tampons come with their own FitPak so you can discretely bring three with you to the gym or to practice.

6Seventh Generation Free & Clear

For girls with ultra sensitive skin or concerns about chemicals and fragrances, Seventh Generation’s Free & Clear tampons have a BPA-free smooth applicator made with 95% plant-based materials. The actual tampons are made with organic, hypoallergenic cotton and are fragrance free.

Test a new product every month to find the perfect tampon for you. Good luck, ladies! You’ve totally got this.