Advice for a tampon newbie?

[cheryl&daughter]

I started using tampons two months ago and it's still hurts to put one in/remove one.
For putting it in, I know it's a small enough size, (U by Kotex is what I use) I also wait until I'm bleeding enough so it will glide in smoothly.But once it's inside, it kind of stings. Especially once I push the plunger thing to put the actual tampon inside. Don't say I'm not pushing it in far enough because I'm pushing it all the way to the textured grip on the applicator (just like the directions on the box say).
For removing it, I wait until after about five hours or I see a little bit of blood on the string to remove it.
So can you help me?

 

[Kimberly C]

I would try using a different brand of tampon. They are all slightly different shapes and sizes. I prefer Platex Gentle Glide. They seem to be shorter to me. Or maybe you need to try OB. They are applicator free so you just use your finger. Everyone is different. Good luck!