GB1406466A - Expandable tampon inserter having a constraining member - Google Patents

Abstract

1406466 Tampon inserters PROCTER & GAMBLE CO 15 Dec 1972 [17 Dec 1971] 58069/72 Heading A5R A tampon inserter comprises a sleeve 21 for holding a resiliently compressed tampon 29, the sleeve having a portion adjacent its proximal end 27 which is radially expandable; a tubular ejector 22 for ejecting the tampon; and an annular member 23 having a leading surface 28 of an area preventing passage of the member into the vagina, the member 23 being slideable on the sleeve between a first position 25 whereat radial expansion of the expandable portion is prevented and a second position 26 whereat the expandable portion is free to radially expand. In use of the inserter the proximal end 27 is inserted into the vagina with the annular member 23 initially in the position 25 the annular member slides to the position 26 and allows the expandable portion to expand, reducing the force required to eject the tampon. As shown the expandable portion of the sleeve includes slits 24 which form inwardly-tapering flexible flaps 30 which provide a closed end. The surface 28 is preferably displaced from the proximal end of the sleeve while in the position 25 to provide a short portion of sleeve which is used for location during insertion. The sleeve is provided with a stop 31. In the alternative form of sleeve of Fig 4, (not shown), the edges of flaps (32) are superposed over the edges of adjacent flaps. In the form of sleeve of Fig 2, (not shown), the proximal end of the sleeve is open and the expandable portion is formed by folding the sleeve wall. The annular member (23') of Fig 7, (not shown), is shaped as a spool. The inserter may be used with a generally conically shaped tampon having a hollow absorbent body.