Abstract: A tampon formed from braided slivers of absorbent material, having a head portion which is less compressed axially and radially than a tail portion thereof. The braided body can be folded in half to define a tampon with a folded head portion and a bifurcated tail portion. Such tampons are adapted for insertion with the head portion foremost into a body cavity.Furthermore, a tampon applicator tube comprising a cylindrical handle and a flared insertion end which engages a shoulder behind the enlarged head of the tampon to allow the tampon to be inserted in place. The applicator tube is not necessarily provided with a plunger to aid insertion.