How To Get A Stuck Tampon Out
Getting a tampon stuck in your vagina can be a cause for concern, but it’s important to remember that a tampon cannot get lost in your body. It can, however, become lodged in the vaginal canal, making it difficult to reach or remove. Whether the tampon is stuck due to forgetfulness, inserting a new tampon before removing the previous one, or having sex with a tampon in, there are steps you can take to safely remove it. Here’s what you need to know about getting a stuck tampon out and when to seek medical assistance.
Understanding a Stuck Tampon
When a tampon is described as “stuck,” it means that it has moved higher up in the vaginal canal, making it challenging to locate or grasp. The vagina is a few inches long and has a cervix at the end, acting as a barrier between the vagina and the uterus. While a tampon cannot go past the cervix, it can get pushed higher into the vaginal canal, making removal difficult.
How to Remove a Stuck Tampon
If you suspect a stuck tampon, the first step is to wash your hands thoroughly. You can then squat down, insert your finger into your vagina, and sweep it around in a circular motion. This may help you locate the tampon. If you’re unable to sweep it out, try inserting two fingers to grasp it. Squatting and bearing down, similar to the motion of having a bowel movement, can also help bring the tampon closer to the vaginal opening, making it easier to remove. If you’re still unable to remove it or feel uncomfortable doing so, it’s essential to seek help from your healthcare provider promptly.
What if the Tampon String Breaks?
While the concern of a tampon string breaking is common, it’s important to note that tampon strings are designed to be secure and rarely break during normal use. If the string does break, it’s crucial to remain calm. You can still safely remove the tampon by following the same steps for locating and removing a stuck tampon. However, if you encounter difficulties or are unable to find the tampon, seeking medical assistance is recommended.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you suspect a retained or stuck tampon and are unable to remove it yourself, it’s advisable to contact your OB-GYN doctor’s office or family doctor for assistance. While a stuck tampon is not usually an emergency, it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent any potential complications. However, if you experience symptoms of toxic shock syndrome (TSS) or suspect a retained tampon and develop signs of infection, such as unusual discharge, odor, fever, or discomfort, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
FAQs
1. Can a tampon get lost in the body?
No, a tampon cannot get lost in the body. It can become lodged in the vaginal canal but cannot pass the cervix into the uterus.
2. What should I do if the tampon string breaks?
If the tampon string breaks, remain calm. You can still attempt to remove the tampon using the same techniques for locating and removing a stuck tampon. If you encounter difficulties, seek medical assistance.
3. When should I seek medical attention for a stuck tampon?
If you are unable to remove the tampon yourself or experience symptoms of infection or toxic shock syndrome, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.
4. Can a stuck tampon come out on its own?
A stuck tampon is unlikely to come out on its own and should be safely removed to prevent potential complications.
5. What are the signs of a retained tampon?
Signs of a retained tampon may include unusual vaginal discharge, foul odor, discomfort, fever, or other symptoms of infection.
6. What if I can’t find my tampon?
If you’re unable to locate your tampon, it’s advisable to seek medical assistance to ensure safe and proper removal.