How can you tell you have a Hymen?

[SammiRena]

I recently learned that I can't put in tampons without causing pain because of my hymen. I'm going to ask my mom to go to a doctor because of this, but I'm not sure whether or not I really need to. Off a site, it says: "Most baby girls are born with a hymen, and usually they break them while doing a sport or activity while there young and don't even remember it. Some girls aren't born with one. Back to the ones with a hymen. It's uncommon for a girl to till have hers around puberty. And it's really rare for girls to have one who's already had there period. I think I still have mine, for I've tried a million types to get a tampon in, and I can't. I've cried because it hurt so bad, and I sitll couldn't get one up there. I've tried relaxing, spreading my legs, and angling it back toward my lower back. But nothing is working. I don't know if I still have my hymen. If so, how can I tell? And if I don't, any tips on how I can get a tampon in without so much pain?

[SammiRena]

Okay, I'll try with my finger. And I'll see if I putting in right too. But I really think it is my hymen.. My mother doesn't recall having a hymen, she lost her virginity at a young age, and had her first child at 16. I'm trying all the things that can help! Thank you guys SO much for the advice, and I'll practice all I can(:

[Clysta]

It might not actually be your hymen. It might just be how it's put in. Like the above poster said, try using a form lubrication to put it in. I don't have one, and at times if I put one in wrong it still causes a ton of pain and I have to readjust it.

[Jaybay]

I had the same troubles with tampons as did my mother and my sister.  We were all cursed with hymens of steel - not exactly fun when it came to first sexual experiences.  :-/

After going through many, many attempts with various tampons, I found that it was easier to use one without an applicator like OB.  Yeah, it can be kind of gross but you have more control over where it goes.  Use the smallest ones you can find and if necessary, use a little lubricant like KY jelly to help.  If you can still feel it when you stand up, you didn't get it in far enough.  You can also practice by using your own finger.  Yeah, yeah, I know.  Gross out.  But it's YOUR body and a little exploration might help you find your way out of the land of being straddled on a surf board every month.

My first few successes were still uncomfortable during insertion but it gradually got better.  It's one of those things that takes patience and practice.  Don't give up!