A tampon cannot go past your cervix or become lost inside your body. Female anatomy naturally prevents a tampon from traveling beyond the vaginal canal. The cervix acts as a barrier, ensuring tampons remain in the vagina where they absorb menstrual fluid.
Understanding Pelvic Anatomy
The female reproductive system includes the vagina, cervix, and uterus. The vagina is a muscular tube connecting the external genitalia to the cervix. It serves as the canal for menstruation, sexual intercourse, and childbirth.
At the top of the vaginal canal is the cervix, the lower, narrow part of the uterus. The cervix has a small opening, called the external os, which leads into the uterus. This opening is only a few millimeters wide, far too small for a solid object like a tampon to pass through. The cervix allows menstrual fluid to exit and sperm to enter, while blocking larger objects from moving into the uterus.
How Tampons Function and Stay in Place
Tampons are absorbent products designed to manage menstrual flow by being inserted into the vagina. They are typically made of cotton or a blend of cotton and rayon, compressed into a cylindrical shape. Upon insertion, the tampon absorbs menstrual fluid and expands, conforming to the shape of the vaginal canal. This expansion, combined with the natural muscular walls of the vagina, holds the tampon securely in place.
A string is attached to one end of the tampon, which remains outside the body for easy removal. The vaginal muscles snugly surround the tampon, preventing it from moving further up the reproductive tract. The cervix acts as a natural stopping point, preventing the tampon from entering the uterus.
When You Can’t Feel Your Tampon
Sometimes, a tampon might feel difficult to locate or remove, leading to concern that it is “lost.” This often happens if the tampon has been pushed higher into the vaginal canal, or if its string has become tucked away. It is important to remember that a tampon cannot get truly lost inside your body due to the barrier formed by the cervix.
To attempt removal, first wash your hands thoroughly to prevent introducing bacteria. Then, find a comfortable position, such as squatting, sitting on the toilet, or lying down with knees bent. Squatting can help by shortening the vaginal canal and bringing the tampon closer to the vaginal opening. Gently insert one or two fingers into the vagina and sweep them around to locate the string or the tampon itself.
If you can feel the tampon, try to grasp it with your fingers and gently pull it out. Bearing down, similar to having a bowel movement, can also help bring the tampon lower and make it easier to reach. If you are unable to remove the tampon yourself, or if you experience any unusual symptoms such as a strong odor or discharge, it is advisable to contact a healthcare professional. They can easily remove a retained tampon, which is a common and resolvable issue.