retaining tube expulsion end first b the tampon is inserted distal end first into the expulsion end of the plunger c adhesive is applied to the outside of the retaining tube using any conventional coating process d the retaining tube is inserted expulsion end first into the tampon holder and e the adhesive is allowed to set fig6 shows an alternate embodiment of the invention in which retaining tube 17 is replaced by retaining ring 117 as with retaining tube 17 retaining ring 117 is adhered to the inner surface of holder tube 12 preferably by a water based adhesive the ring may be any desired length with about 0 125 to 0 375 inches being preferred instead of a complete ring as shown the retaining structure may be a c shaped member an open ring adhered to the inner surface of the holder tube the use of a retaining ring or c shaped member in place of a retaining tube requires less material adhesive and retaining structure material but may make the applicator more difficult to manufacture also as shown in fig6 rings may be adhered onto plunger 20 distally of its expulsion end preferably about 0 625 34 from the expulsion end and near the distal end of holder 12 to provide the interlocking of the plunger and the holder in.