Is it true that if your tampon isn’t wet enough it won’t come out?

Okay, so it's not that it won't come out, but it can definitely be really uncomfortable if your tampon isn't wet enough when you try to take it out. It might feel a little scratchy or dry, which is no fun.

What's going on?

Tampons work by soaking up your period blood. When they're full, they get soft and smooth, so they can slide out easily. If your flow is really light, or if you're taking it out too soon, the tampon might not have absorbed enough liquid to be fully wet. This makes it a bit stiff and dry, and that's why it can feel weird or a little painful when you pull the string.

What to do about it

If you're having trouble, just relax! Sometimes taking a deep breath can help your muscles chill out. You can also try changing your tampon more often when your flow is heavier, and maybe using a lighter absorbency tampon on lighter days. If it still feels really dry and stuck, some people find it helps to gently bear down a little, like you're trying to pee or poop, which can help push it down just enough to make it easier to grab the string and pull it out.

If this keeps happening or it's really uncomfortable, it might mean you're using a tampon that's too absorbent for your flow, or maybe you're just not quite ready for tampons yet. Pads or period underwear are super comfy options too, especially for lighter days!