A tampon and a tampon applicator in combination for expulsion of a tampon. The tampon applicator has a tampon holder tube. The tampon holder tube has a hollow interior portion, a first end dimensioned for insertion into a vaginal cavity, a second end positioned oppositely to the first end, a force controller, and at least one side expulsion member. The side expulsion member has a weakened region located at its base. The tampon has a body having a first end, center, and a second end; body has a joined portion; the body has a plurality of absorbent strips joined at the joined portion. The strips are selected from the group consisting of nonwoven materials, films, woven materials, absorbent foams, superabsorbent polymers, and mixtures thereof. The tampon is housed within the hollow interior portion of the tampon holder tube in a pre-expelled position.