Tampon help

Fellow tampon users!!! I've had my period for 6 years and am really getting sick of the whole pad thing. I'm absolutely terrified of tampons. The thought up something going up there isn't an ideal thought. Also, My period is heavy, so it's a mess down there lmao. My mom doesn't use them either, so I have no one to get help from. Any tips, tricks, or ways to ease my mind? Share whatever! Anything helps! Thank you :)