Many people wonder if something can get stuck in their cervix. While this is a common concern, the cervix’s anatomy generally prevents items from becoming truly “lost” or moving beyond a certain point in the reproductive tract. This design helps protect the uterus.
Understanding the Cervix
The cervix is the lower, narrow part of the uterus, connecting it to the vagina. This muscular, tunnel-like organ, often called the “neck of the uterus,” allows fluids to pass between the uterus and vagina. It is approximately 1 to 2 inches long and 1 inch wide. The cervix has two openings: the internal os, which leads to the uterus, and the external os, which opens into the vagina.
The small opening of the external os usually dilates only during menstruation to allow blood to exit, or significantly during childbirth. This narrow passage acts as a protective barrier, making it anatomically difficult for most foreign objects to enter the uterus or become lost beyond the vaginal canal. The cervix’s structure safeguards the uterus from bacteria and other external elements.
Common Items and Misconceptions
Despite the cervix’s protective structure, common items may feel stuck, though rarely in a dangerous or unretrievable position. Tampons, for instance, cannot get lost inside the body as the cervix acts as a barrier, with an opening too small for a tampon to pass through. A tampon might feel “stuck” if pushed high in the vagina or if its string is inaccessible. Squatting, bearing down, or sweeping a finger around can often help locate and remove it.
Menstrual cups can also feel stuck, primarily due to strong suction or high placement within the vaginal canal. Cups are designed to create a seal to prevent leaks, and this seal must be broken before removal. Pinching the base of the cup or inserting a finger between the cup and the vaginal wall helps release the suction. Like tampons, menstrual cups cannot get lost beyond the cervix.
Intrauterine device (IUD) strings are another common source of concern. While meant to hang into the vagina for self-checking, they can sometimes curl up against the cervix or be cut too short to feel. Not feeling the strings does not always mean the IUD has moved. However, if the strings are consistently unfeelable, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider to confirm the IUD’s position.
When Objects Are Truly Stuck
While many “stuck” objects are easily resolved, rarer and more serious situations can occur where a foreign object or medical device becomes genuinely lodged or causes complications. Medical devices, such as a diaphragm or a pessary, can sometimes become embedded in the vaginal walls. Pessaries, used for pelvic organ prolapse or urinary incontinence, can lead to complications like foul-smelling discharge, bleeding, or even erosion of vaginal tissue if neglected.
An IUD, though rare, can also perforate or migrate from its intended position within the uterus. Perforation means the IUD pokes into or through the wall of the uterus or cervix. Symptoms indicating a genuine problem with any foreign object in the vaginal area include unusual or foul-smelling discharge, abnormal bleeding, persistent pelvic or abdominal pain, itching, discomfort with urination, fever, or chills.
Seeking Medical Attention
If concerns persist or symptoms arise regarding a foreign object in the vaginal canal, seeking professional medical attention is important. Consult a healthcare professional for changes in vaginal discharge, particularly if it is foul-smelling or abnormal in color, or if there is unusual vaginal bleeding. Persistent discomfort, inability to retrieve an object, or the presence of pain, odor, or fever also warrant medical evaluation.
Healthcare providers can safely assess and remove foreign objects. This may involve a pelvic exam using a speculum and forceps. Imaging techniques like ultrasound, X-ray, or MRI might be used to locate the object. If an object has been in place for an extended period or causes significant issues, surgical intervention may be required.