Since you’re saying the string is being soaked first, this sounds like it might be an insertion issue. I recommend reading over the directions for the product you are using; just to be sure you are following them correctly. (I occasionally look over the directions that come in the box just for a refresher.) Once the tampon is in place, be sure and give the string and gentle tug (not hard enough to pull it out, but enough to make sure it is sitting right at the opening of the vaginal canal.)
Here’s a link to a video on our website, https://www.ubykotex.com/en-ca/periods/pads-and-tampons/using-a-tampon-for-the-first-time on how to insert a tampon.You're so not alone on this! I can think of quite a few times that I've gone to the bathroom to change my tampon only to find the string soaked and the tampon almost unused. I haven't figured out how to totally prevent it, and I think it must have something to do with the way our bodies are shaped. But there are definitely a few things that have helped me in the past, so maybe they'll work for you!
First of all, make sure your tampon is inserted completely. If I'm in a rush and don't insert my tampon correctly (or deeply enough), I'm much more likely to get leakage. Not everyone's body is shaped the same, so you may have to insert it at a slightly different angle than what's shown in the "how-to" diagrams. You could also try buying tampons with leak protection. You'll know if the tampon has leak protection because you'll see some extra material at the base of the string.
If neither of those things do the trick, you can still swim without fear. Often, being submerged in water temporarily blocks your flow, so you don't have to worry about a trail of red behind your breaststroke. Just be careful when you're getting out of the pool because that blocked flow will want to make its escape once the water pressure is gone.This is not intended to be medical advice. Everybody is different so please make sure to consult your physician if you're having issues. Do not delay or refrain from seeking professional medical advice from your physician because of something you have read on this site.
