tampons

I’m 16 years old and am I’m on my period and want to go swimming, so I need to use a tampon .

i’ve tried putting a tampon in before but feels rly uncomfortable . what’s the best way to do it ? and should i try it when i’m on or off my period?

also I’ve never fingered myself either and I see other girls my age already having sex, should I just try it, I feel so behind ?

like do you think it’s better to try doing stuff down there first, or use a tampon ? this sounds so stupid ahhaha please help tho...