We Were All Erin in “Paper Girls”: My Story on How I Learned to Use a Tampon
If you're a person with a uterus, then you've probably had to deal with your period at some point. For many of us, that means learning how to use a tampon for the first time. In the new show Paper Girls on Amazon Prime, there's an episode (Ep 5: A New Period) that perfectly captures the experience of learning to use period products. It is a hilarious and nostalgic scene that reminded me of my own experiences of menstruating for the first time.
Although I had had my period for the first time at fourteen, it was not until I was a junior in high school that I learned to use a tampon. My friends and I sat at a wooden table crowded around a laptop intrigued by the video that read: How to Put On a Tampon by Weylie Hoang.
We watched in fascination as the YouTuber went through the process of inserting a tampon using a water bottle. After the video ended, it was like an AHA moment. The way Weylie described how to put a tampon in was so basic and simple. But was it really that easy?
Being the oldest of the group, I naturally tried the technique first. It wasn't like I hadn't tried to put a tampon in before. But there was no way that thing was going in. I had previously been scared of them thinking they would take my virginity or cause massive bleeding. Thanks, patriarchy. On top of all that, the idea of getting toxic shock syndrome wasn't exactly a bonus.
You might be wondering why I wouldn't consult the older people with uteruses I knew to help out. There is so much shame surrounding menstruation and so many myths that there was no way I was comfortable enough asking. Periods were looked at as a sign of becoming a "woman" even though not all women have periods. And we were teenagers bleeding out of our vaginas hearing grown-ass people refer to us as "women".
Periods are not a sign of womanhood but a sign of puberty. Science if you will. This is just what happens to your body at a certain age if you happen to have a uterus and a vagina. It does not mean you are an adult person who has to watch out for people who can get you "knocked up." Periods are normal. This is what I wish I heard when I first had mine.
Naturally, I stood in the bathroom one foot on the edge of the tub and the other on the floor with the tampon in my hand. I pushed it in until all I could feel was the string and viola! I finally learned to use a tampon the right way. Today I am much more skilled in putting tampons in and have ventured to Super and Super Plus. No, that does not mean the size of your vagina despite what Mac thought. However, I do like the idea of having Big P*ssy Energy. Maybe Mac had a point there.
I'm glad Paper Girls showcased this particular scene. In all its hilarity it was relatable and nostalgic to watch. If you haven't seen the show yet, I highly recommend it. And if you're someone who is learning to use tampons for the first time, don't worry you got this! Just remember to relax and go slow. And Trust me, it's always okay to use pads instead.
Stream Paper Girls on Amazon Prime.
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