A retained or forgotten tampon is a common occurrence that can happen to anyone using menstrual hygiene products. Although a tampon cannot get truly lost inside the body, leaving one in for too long can lead to discomfort and potentially serious health risks. Understanding the signs and knowing how to safely address the situation is important.
Identifying the Key Symptoms
The most noticeable indicator of a retained tampon is a foul odor emanating from the vaginal area. This smell results from the buildup of bacteria and blood trapped inside the absorbent material for an extended period. The odor often signals that the tampon has been inside much longer than the recommended maximum of eight hours.
The bacterial environment frequently causes unusual vaginal discharge that is no longer typical menstrual blood. The discharge may appear discolored, ranging from brown, gray, yellow, or greenish, sometimes accompanied by itching or irritation around the vulva.
Beyond local irritation, systemic symptoms warn that the body is reacting to a spreading infection, possibly Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). TSS is a rare but severe complication caused by toxins released by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria multiplying in the retained tampon’s environment. Symptoms develop rapidly and include a sudden high fever, chills, vomiting, diarrhea, and flu-like muscle aches.
A spreading infection may also manifest as a sunburn-like rash on the body, particularly on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. If these symptoms occur while using a tampon, it suggests the infection is progressing rapidly. These signs require immediate attention, as TSS can quickly lead to low blood pressure, organ failure, and confusion.
Immediate Self-Check and Safe Removal
If you suspect a tampon is retained but are not experiencing severe illness, you can attempt a self-check and removal at home. First, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to minimize introducing bacteria to the vaginal canal. Finding a comfortable position, such as squatting or sitting on the toilet with legs spread, can help shorten the vaginal canal and make the tampon easier to reach.
Once in position, insert one or two fingers into the vagina and sweep them in a circular motion to locate the string or the body of the tampon. If you struggle to reach it, bearing down with your abdominal muscles, similar to a bowel movement, can help push the tampon lower. When the tampon is located, grip it between two fingers and pull it out slowly and steadily.
After removal, inspect the tampon to ensure no pieces were left behind. Cleanse the outer genital area with mild, unscented soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or douching, as this can further disrupt the delicate pH balance and increase the risk of infection.
When Professional Medical Care is Necessary
A medical professional must be involved immediately if you are unable to remove the tampon after several attempts. If you cannot locate or grasp the tampon, a doctor or nurse can remove it quickly and safely. They use a speculum to widen the vaginal walls, allowing them to visualize the tampon and remove it with forceps.
The second scenario is the presence of severe, systemic symptoms, which indicate potential TSS. These symptoms include a fever of 102°F or higher, sudden dizziness, confusion, or the onset of a full-body rash. If you experience any of these while a tampon is or may have been retained, go immediately to an emergency room or urgent care facility.
If a severe infection is suspected, medical treatment focuses on removing the source of the toxins, the retained tampon. Professionals administer intravenous fluids and broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the bacterial infection. Prompt removal and treatment prevent the toxins from causing widespread damage to vital organs.