A tampon that feels stuck or cannot be immediately located is a common occurrence. Due to the anatomy of the vagina, which ends at the cervix, a tampon cannot physically get lost inside the body or travel to other organs. The difficulty arises when the retrieval string is tucked away or the tampon has shifted high into the vaginal canal, making it hard to reach. Understanding the signs of a retained tampon and knowing the correct steps for removal can quickly resolve this situation.
Signs That a Tampon Is Retained
The most immediate sign that a tampon is retained is a distinct, foul odor emanating from the vaginal area. This smell is often described as putrid or rotten and is caused by bacteria multiplying on the cotton material and trapped menstrual blood. The retention of the tampon disrupts the natural balance of vaginal flora.
This odor is typically accompanied by abnormal vaginal discharge that has changed in color and consistency. Discharge may appear brown, gray, yellow, or greenish, and it is frequently thicker or watery and profuse. These changes indicate that the foreign object is irritating the vaginal lining and potentially leading to a localized infection.
Beyond the odor and discharge, a retained tampon can cause localized physical discomfort. You may experience pelvic pain, abdominal cramping, or pain and burning when attempting to urinate. Inability to locate the retrieval string during a routine check is another clear indicator, which may happen if the string has been pushed up alongside the tampon during movement or sexual activity.
Safe Steps for Self-Removal
If you suspect a tampon is retained, remain calm and consciously relax your pelvic floor muscles. Tension, which often occurs when stressed, tightens the vaginal canal and makes the tampon much more difficult to reach. Before attempting internal exploration, thoroughly wash your hands and trim or smooth any sharp edges on your fingernails to prevent abrasions to the delicate vaginal tissues.
Finding the correct body position can significantly improve your reach. Try squatting down low, which naturally shortens the vaginal canal, or sit on the toilet with your knees spread wide. Alternatively, stand with one leg propped up on the edge of the bathtub or toilet seat to open the area.
In your chosen position, gently insert one or two fingers into your vagina, sweeping in a circular motion to locate the string or the body of the tampon. If the tampon is high up near the cervix, use a technique called “bearing down,” which is the same action used during a bowel movement. This gentle downward pressure helps push the tampon lower into the canal, making it accessible for your fingers to grasp.
Once you have located the tampon, use your thumb and forefinger to gently pinch the material or the string. Pull the tampon out slowly and steadily, and immediately inspect the removed item to confirm it is intact. If you can only feel small pieces or are unsure if the entire tampon has been removed, stop and seek medical help to avoid leaving any fibrous material behind.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
While most retained tampons can be safely removed at home, systemic symptoms indicate a serious medical concern requiring immediate emergency care. The most serious complication is Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), a rare but rapidly progressing illness caused by toxins released by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria. A tampon, especially if left in for an extended period, can create a favorable environment for this bacterial growth.
Symptoms of TSS develop suddenly and differ from the localized discomfort of a retained tampon. Systemic signs include a sudden, high fever (often 102°F or higher), accompanied by flu-like symptoms such as chills, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. The toxins can also cause a widespread red rash that looks similar to a sunburn, especially noticeable on the palms and soles of the feet.
Dizziness, fainting, or confusion are red flags, as these can be signs of dangerously low blood pressure, a hallmark of TSS. If you have a retained tampon and experience any combination of these systemic symptoms, go to an emergency room right away. Do not attempt to treat these symptoms at home.
Seek medical attention if you have attempted gentle self-removal multiple times without success. If localized symptoms like foul odor, discolored discharge, or pelvic pain persist for more than 24 hours after removal, a medical examination is necessary to ensure no material was left behind and that any potential infection is treated.