A tampon is a common menstrual product designed to absorb menstrual flow internally. It consists of a cylindrical absorbent material, typically cotton or rayon, compressed into a small shape with a string attached for removal. While generally easy to use, a common concern arises when a tampon might become “stuck” or retained, leading to questions about continued menstrual bleeding and potential health implications.
Signs of a Retained Tampon
A retained tampon often presents with a noticeable foul odor from the vaginal area. This may be accompanied by unusual, discolored vaginal discharge (brown, green, yellow, pink, or gray). Other signs include pelvic or abdominal discomfort, vaginal itching, genital swelling, painful urination, or a rash or redness around the vaginal area.
Menstrual Flow and a Retained Tampon
Menstrual flow can continue even if a tampon is retained. The vagina is an elastic canal, and while a tampon can become lodged or pushed deeper, it does not completely seal off the cervix or prevent menstrual blood from exiting the uterus. The cervix, located at the top of the vagina, has an opening too small for a tampon to pass through, ensuring it cannot get lost inside the body beyond the vaginal canal. Bleeding might continue around the retained tampon, or new menstrual flow could accumulate behind it, potentially mixing with discharge from any developing infection. The presence of the tampon can alter the appearance or smell of this discharge, making it seem different from typical menstrual blood. A person might observe ongoing bleeding or a change in their usual menstrual pattern despite a tampon being inside.
Health Risks of a Retained Tampon
Leaving a tampon in for an extended period, especially beyond 8 hours, increases the risk of health complications. The warm, moist environment of the vagina provides an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, which can multiply on the tampon’s absorbent material. This bacterial overgrowth can lead to vaginal infections, such as bacterial vaginosis, characterized by an off-white, gray, or greenish discharge and a fishy odor.
A more serious, though rare, complication is Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), a severe bacterial infection caused by toxins from Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Symptoms of TSS develop rapidly, typically within 2 to 5 days after tampon insertion, and can include a sudden high fever, flu-like symptoms like muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. A sunburn-like rash may also appear, especially on the palms and soles, and in severe cases, TSS can lead to dizziness, low blood pressure, and organ damage. Prompt tampon removal and medical treatment are needed if TSS is suspected.
Steps for Self-Removal
If you suspect a tampon is retained and have no infection symptoms, you can attempt self-removal. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent introducing bacteria into the vagina. Trimming or filing long or jagged fingernails can help prevent scratches to the vaginal walls during removal.
Find a comfortable position, such as squatting, sitting on the toilet with feet elevated, or standing with one leg raised. These positions can help bring the tampon closer to the vaginal opening. Try to relax your pelvic muscles, as tension can make removal more difficult. Gently “bear down” as if having a bowel movement, which might help to push the tampon down.
Insert one or two clean fingers into the vagina and sweep them around to locate the tampon or its string. Once located, grasp the tampon or string and gently pull it out. Never use tweezers or other objects, as this can cause injury or infection.
When Professional Help is Needed
Seek medical attention if you cannot remove a retained tampon yourself. Healthcare professionals are trained to safely remove tampons, often using their fingers or a small clamp, and this procedure is typically quick and similar to a pelvic exam.
Also, seek immediate medical help if you experience any infection symptoms, regardless of whether you can remove the tampon. These symptoms include a high fever, foul-smelling or discolored vaginal discharge, persistent abdominal or pelvic pain, unusual rash, or dizziness. Prompt medical evaluation ensures proper diagnosis and treatment, especially given the potential for serious conditions like Toxic Shock Syndrome.