Why does using a tampon feel painful to me?

Not sure: Is size too large? Are you inserting at wrong angle? Is it a rough cardboard applicator? When you first start using tampons you may find it easier to insert a “slim” tampon with a smooth plastic applicator that has a rounded tip. Recommend that you avoid super tampons with cardboard applicators when you first start. There are may u tube videos that provide instruction on proper tampon insertion.