The question of whether an object can become lodged near the cervix is a common source of anxiety. Items inserted into the vagina can occasionally become difficult to retrieve or be forgotten entirely. While it is extremely rare for a solid object to physically pass through the cervix into the uterus, objects can become firmly wedged high in the vaginal canal, resting directly against the cervix. Understanding the anatomy and the types of objects involved can help demystify the situation. These instances are generally treatable when addressed promptly.
Understanding the Cervix and Its Function
The cervix is the firm, cylindrical lower portion of the uterus, connecting it to the top of the vagina. It acts as a muscular gateway, playing a significant role in reproductive health and maintaining the sterility of the uterus. The opening into the vagina is called the external os, and it is usually very small and narrow, typically measuring only a few millimeters in diameter.
This narrow opening and the thick cervical mucus form a protective barrier against external contaminants and solid foreign objects. When people feel that something is “stuck in the cervix,” the object is almost always lodged high in the vaginal vault, pressed against the domed surface of the cervix. The cervix is a flexible, resilient structure, but an object positioned just beyond the reach of the fingers can be difficult to locate or grasp.
Objects That May Become Lodged
The foreign bodies most frequently reported to become lodged in the upper vaginal canal are those designed for temporary vaginal use. A forgotten tampon is the most common scenario, often occurring when a second tampon is inserted while the first remains, or when the string is lost high in the vaginal folds. The compressed cotton material expands and can become difficult to grasp, migrating to the space behind the cervix.
Other objects include menstrual cups or diaphragms, which can become stuck due to a strong suction seal or improper removal technique. If the suction seal is not properly broken, the device can be resistant to downward pressure. Furthermore, fragments of contraception, such as a detached piece of a condom or a broken plastic part of a tampon applicator, can be left behind unnoticed.
Intrauterine device (IUD) strings can also retract into the cervical canal, leading to the perception that the device itself is stuck or has moved. While the IUD is located inside the uterus, difficult-to-locate retrieval strings cause concern that the entire device has shifted. Only fluids or extremely small, flexible materials have any chance of passing through the tiny, protective os into the uterine cavity.
Signs That Something Is Stuck
The clearest indicator that a foreign object is retained in the vagina is a distinct and foul-smelling vaginal odor. This smell is typically described as rotten or decaying and is caused by the shift in the vaginal microflora as bacteria thrive on the foreign material. This change in bacterial balance often results in an abnormal and copious discharge, which may appear yellow, gray, or brownish.
Discomfort or localized pain can also signal a retained object, especially if it is large or has been present for a long period. Individuals may report a feeling of pressure or a persistent sensation of something being inside the vaginal canal. If the foreign body has been lodged long enough to cause a localized infection, systemic symptoms like fever or chills may develop, indicating a more serious complication.
Safe Steps for Removal and Medical Intervention
Attempting Self-Removal
If you suspect a retained object, attempt a gentle self-removal using clean hands and a comfortable position. Thoroughly wash your hands before inserting one or two fingers into the vagina. Assume a position that shortens the vaginal canal and allows easier access, such as squatting or resting one leg on the edge of a tub or toilet.
Once in position, try to locate the object, which is usually high and toward the back of the vagina, near the cervix. Gently bearing down with your pelvic floor muscles can sometimes push the object lower and make it easier to reach. If you can feel the object, attempt to hook a finger around it or grasp it gently to pull it out.
When to Seek Medical Help
If the object cannot be located or removed after a few gentle attempts, contact a healthcare provider for professional assistance. You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe pain.
- Bleeding that is not typical of your menstrual cycle.
- Signs of a systemic infection like a fever, chills, or dizziness.
Healthcare providers can safely remove the object using specialized tools, such as a speculum and forceps. Never use non-medical tools or devices to attempt removal, as this can cause injury to the vaginal walls or cervix.