Can I use tampons with a vaginal tear?

Author: Aunt Vadge
Qualified Naturopath | BHSc(N)

Last reviewed: July 1, 2026

Hi Aunt Vadge,

I’m 19, not sexually active, and I don’t work out. In the last week of November I think I accidentally tore my vagina. I spent nearly 10 minutes looking with a mirror but couldn’t find the tear. It bled a little then stopped, and I haven’t been able to sit down properly because it’s so sensitive. It didn’t bleed again, but there was some discharge, and it doesn’t sting when I pee. My period is due on 12 December and I’m worried about using tampons – should I see a doctor first, since it’s not going away? The same thing happened in January 2016. I think if I did something sexual, even by myself, it would start bleeding again. Please help.

Sincerely,
Bothered

Dear Bothered,

On the tampon question: if a tampon goes in and out comfortably, it’s fine to use. If it hurts at all, skip tampons this period and use pads instead – there’s no need to push through pain.

But the bigger thing is this: you still can’t sit down properly two weeks on, and that’s your sign to get seen. A tear that isn’t healing, or one so tucked away you can’t even find it, needs a doctor’s eyes – they can tell you what’s going on and whether tampons are wise. Please don’t let cost or embarrassment put you off; this is exactly what they’re there for.

Why it keeps happening matters

Tearing in the same area more than once, and taking this long to heal, isn’t typical of a simple graze. Recurrent fissures can point to a skin condition like lichen sclerosus, or to the tissue being fragile for another reason – which is worth a proper look rather than guessing.

None of this is you doing something wrong. If it tends to happen with masturbation or first attempts at penetration, going gently and using plenty of lube helps protect the tissue – but recurrent same-spot tearing still deserves examining, so the underlying reason can be found and treated.

How this affects your vagina

Vulval and vaginal skin usually heals quickly, so a tear that stays sore for two weeks is telling you something needs attention. Being gentle and getting it checked protects the tissue from tearing again in the same spot.

Write back and let me know how you get on.

Warmest regards,
Aunt Vadge

This is general information, not a substitute for personalised medical advice.