Tampons? How does it work?

Nala • Sun, Mar 08 • If I’m smiling I’m dreaming, if I’m awake my dreams didn’t come true

I’m a Virgin and I never used anything besides a pad. My mother never showed me how. Made the whole first period event traumatizing. I just want something that’s cleaner and easier than a pad. Any advice. I’m 25, if that matters somehow.