Frequently asked questions about TAMPiNO

TAMPiNO is a reusable tampon applicator, developed and made in Switzerland. Load the tampon into the flexible sleeve (Spiralgleiter) and use the plunger to place it. After insertion, remove the sleeve and plunger completely. The tampon stays in the vagina and its string remains accessible. Clean the cap, sleeve and plunger for your next use.

No. Each tampon is used once. When you change it, put it in the bin and use a fresh one. Your TAMPiNO applicator parts can be reused once they are clean and completely dry.

Your set contains TAMPiNO with its cap, sleeve and plunger. It also includes two organic cotton tampon samples to try: one Mini and one Normal. TAMPiCASE and more tampons are sold separately.

No. All ten colours work in exactly the same way. Choose whichever you like. The applicator’s colour has nothing to do with tampon absorbency or size.

The flexible sleeve is made from biocompatible TPU 85A from BASF/Bedrock. The plunger and cap are made from biocompatible PLA.

A quiet moment during your period may help with a first attempt. Wash your hands, take a fresh tampon and check the instructions on its packaging. A small mirror may help you find the vaginal opening. If it hurts, stop rather than forcing it. You can try again later or choose another period product. Our first-tampon guide goes into the first steps in more detail.

Absorbency depends on your flow, rather than whether this is your first tampon. Choose the lowest absorbency that meets your needs. If a tampon is still very dry and uncomfortable to remove, a lower absorbency may suit you better. TAMPiNO is designed for Mini, Normal, Super and Super Plus. Shapes and size names can vary between brands. Our absorbency guide helps explain the differences.

The flap is the small overlapping part at the long slit along the sleeve. Gently fold it inwards towards the tampon or outwards. It usually sits inside for Mini and Normal, and outside for Super and Super Plus. The tampon's shape also matters. Our instructions page uses a close-up and video to show the flap and its two positions.

Start by asking what she would like to know, and listen. Show her where period supplies are kept and, if helpful, put together a small bag for school or days out. Offer to look at the instructions together. Whether and when she wants to try a tampon is her decision. Our guide to supporting someone through their first period offers more conversation ideas.

No. After placing the tampon, remove the sleeve and plunger completely. Only the tampon stays in the vagina. Its string remains outside and accessible so you can remove it when changing.

When preparing the applicator, place the string in the guiding notch on the plunger. The remaining length hangs down outside. It does not need to fit entirely inside the notch.

Stop and take a break. More force will not help. A comfortable position and an angle gently towards your back can help you find the direction. The vagina does not run straight upwards. If you want to try again, use a fresh tampon and go slowly. You can choose another period product at any time. Seek medical advice for repeated pain or difficulty. Our guide to direction and position explains the orientation.

No. You should not noticeably feel a correctly positioned tampon while wearing it. If it presses or hurts, gently remove it and use a fresh tampon if you try again. You do not need to put up with discomfort. Get medical advice if it keeps happening.

Wash your hands and find a comfortable position. Gently and slowly pull down on the tampon string, following the packaging instructions. You do not use TAMPiNO for this. A tampon that has absorbed very little blood may feel dry and uncomfortable. Do not jerk or force it. If you cannot remove it easily, seek medical help. Our removal guide also explains what matters if you cannot reach the string.

No. The vagina ends at the cervix, and its opening is far too small for a tampon to pass through. A tampon therefore cannot travel further into your body. The string can slip inside, or the tampon can turn and become harder to reach. Wash your hands and only try to reach it gently with your fingers if that feels comfortable. Do not use another object to retrieve it. If you cannot remove it easily or are unsure whether one is still inserted, seek prompt medical help. Do not wait if you also have fever, an unusual smell, discharge or pain. Healthdirect’s medical guidance on retained tampons explains the next steps and warning signs in more detail.

No. Urine leaves your body through the urethra, while the tampon sits in the vagina. These are separate openings. You can gently hold the string to one side when you pee. If it gets wet and bothers you, you can change the tampon. A toilet visit does not reset wearing time: keep changing every 4–8 hours and no later than 8 hours.

Yes. A tampon is worn inside your body and can be used for swimming. Remove the applicator completely beforehand. Have a fresh tampon and dry clothes ready afterwards. Change after swimming and keep track of the full wearing time. Our swimming guide helps you prepare.

Yes, TAMPiNO can make placement easier with long fingernails: the plunger moves the tampon into position, so you do not need to insert a finger to do that. Keep your hands and nails clean. Hold the parts steadily and handle them gently to avoid scratching yourself during insertion and removal.

Pack fresh tampons, your clean and completely dry applicator, and a spare period product if useful. Keep TAMPiNO with its cap on in a clean bag. Plan for somewhere to wash your hands and clean the applicator after use. A small, clean carrying pouch can keep things together. What matters is protecting the dry parts and keeping them separate from used products.

Change your tampon every 4–8 hours and no later than 8 hours. A heavier flow may mean changing sooner. Count from insertion, including time spent sleeping, swimming or using the toilet. Choose the lowest absorbency that meets your needs and follow the packaging instructions. The FDA explains general tampon safety.

Yes, if you can change it in time and follow the packaging instructions. Insert it just before bed and remove it after waking. Never wear it for more than 8 hours in total. If you sleep longer or cannot reliably plan a change, choose a pad or suitable period underwear instead. You do not need to organise your sleep around a tampon. Our overnight guide helps you plan.

No. TAMPiNO is an insertion aid and does not protect against toxic shock syndrome (TSS). Your tampon’s safety rules still apply. TSS is rare but serious. If you develop sudden fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness/fainting or a sunburn-like rash during or after tampon use, remove it and seek medical help immediately. The FDA describes the warning signs.

In the bin, not the toilet. If needed, wrap the used tampon in toilet paper and put it in the designated bin. Wash your hands afterwards. Keep your TAMPiNO applicator and clean it for the next use.

After use, rinse the sleeve and plunger thoroughly with water. Pat them dry with a clean cloth or paper, or let them air dry. Put the plunger and cap back on only when the sleeve is completely dry. Store the clean parts somewhere protected. Our instructions page also shows cleaning in photos.

We currently deliver within Switzerland. Shipping is free on orders of CHF 50 or more after discounts. We send a single applicator by letter for CHF 4.90. Multiple items or accessories go by parcel for CHF 8.90. You’ll see your exact shipping cost at checkout before paying. Our shipping and returns page brings the delivery details together.

Yes, where the applicable return terms allow it. Write to us first with your order number and a brief explanation of what you’d like to return or exchange. We’ll review your request and explain the next steps. Our terms apply to voluntary exchanges in Switzerland. We help separately with faulty items or an incorrect delivery. Statutory guarantee rights and any applicable withdrawal rights remain unaffected. Read the full rules on our shipping and returns page and in the return policy.

Email info@tampino.ch or use our contact form. Tell us briefly what you need a hand with. For an order enquiry, include your order number so we can find it more easily. You can also call us on +41 76 567 33 37.