Help.. stretching ears.?

I've had a size 6 gauge in for a month, maybe longer. I have tapers to go to a 4, but I can't get it in my ear? It's not that it hurts too bad to push through. I just seriously can't get it in. I feel as if I'm exerting too much pressure. I tried using lubricant to allow it to slide in and everything. Never had any trouble before. Any advice/ help? How can I get them in my ears?!