text: That is not a weird question at all.  \n\nBut I am not sure why your mom gets a vote on what sort of feminine hygiene products you use.  You don’t get a vote on what sorts of products she uses.  You are becoming an adult, and this is an adult type of situation.  Next time you are at the grocery store chuck a box into the cart, and let it go at that.  Chances are very good that she won’t say a thing about it, and if she does – ask her why she has a problem with tampons.  If you ask very loudly in the store, she will not bother you again.\n\nTampons are the ideal solution for active girls who play sports and especially swim, and even for other girls they are MUCH more comfortable than pads, they are cleaner than pads, and much more environmentally friendly than pads. \n\nTampons do not hurt, and they are not at all uncomfortable, though sometimes girls are a little bit uncomfortable with the idea of inserting them at first.\n\nOne way to get past your fear of using a tampon, is to become better acquainted with yourself.  Some time when you are not on your period, but before your next period, and when you have some time to be alone, take a few minutes to explore and see what the whole area is about.  This is something that is essential for any girl.  \n\nGet comfortable, use a hand mirror, and with your other hand spread yourself open and look around.  It is not dirty, or ugly, or wrong in any way, it is your body, you should know what it is about and how it works.  When you are comfortable, slip a finger inside a few inches.\n\nNext time you have a period, you will be ready to give a tampon a try, and will have a good idea what sort of experience to expect.  It is different, but it is not bad.  Honestly a tampon is WAY better than a pad ever was.  Don’t feel bad if you don’t get it quite right the first few times you try it – it can take a bit of practice.  Just keep trying until you get it right.  When it is right you won’t be able to feel it at all.\n\nUsing a tampon with an applicator is easier at first, but I think the OB without the applicator is easier, more comfy to put in, and much better for the environment.  You will have to pick for yourself.\n\nWhich ever one you get, follow the instructions on the box, and do not leave it in for longer than the instructions say is safe.