Lost Tampon: Symptoms, Removal Tips, and Prevention

Ladies, have you ever gotten that sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach? You know, the feeling that says, "Did I remember to take out my tampon?" Maybe you couldn't find the tampon string, and it left you wondering if you forgot to put one in, or if a tampon got lost.

How could I have a lost tampon?

Although a lost tampon occurs more frequently with young or inexperienced tampon users, it is an easy thing to forget to remove a tampon, and it happens to more women than you would think. The most common reason for a lost tampon is simply forgetting to take the last tampon out at the end of your period. Others causes of a lost tampon could include inserting a new tampon without taking the old tampon out, or having sexual intercourse while wearing a tampon.

How do I know if I have a lost tampon?

The symptoms of having a lost tampon vary for each woman. You may feel abdominal discomfort or pressure. If you have a lost tampon, sexual intercourse may be uncomfortable or even painful. There may be vaginal discharge accompanied by a foul odor. Pelvic pain and fever can occur, which are also symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome. It should be noted that Toxic Shock Syndrome is rare, but a potentially deadly disorder if left untreated.

Other symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome include a rash which looks like a sunburn, watery diarrhea, feeling light-headed or dizzy, a sudden high fever, headache or muscle ache. If you experience any of these symptoms, see your doctor right away.

How do I get rid of the lost tampon?

You can try to remove it yourself before visiting your doctor. To remove a lost tampon yourself, first wash your hands thoroughly. Then insert your finger into your vagina and feel around for any abnormalities. If you can't feel anything, try bearing down as if you are giving birth or having a bowel movement. This may push the lost tampon further down toward the vaginal opening.

If you feel the lost tampon with your finger, remove your finger and insert two fingers into your vagina. Bear down and try to trap the lost tampon between your two fingers to withdraw it.

If you can't find the lost tampon but you still have that uneasy feeling you may have lost one, schedule an appointment with your gynecologist. Don't put off the appointment due to embarrassment. Your OB-GYN has seen everything, and chances are your lost tampon is not the first the doctor has had to remove.

How do I avoid having a lost tampon?

It should be noted these tactics for avoiding a lost tampon aren't foolproof. Avoid drinking alcohol or taking sleep aides while using tampons, since alcohol or sleeping pills can cause memory loss. If you plan on having vaginal intercourse during your period, always take a moment to remove your tampon before beginning. Put a sticky note on the bathroom mirror or schedule an alarm on your cell phone or PDA to remind yourself to take out your last tampon at the end of your period.

The best advice for avoiding a lost tampon is to simply slow down and pay attention during your period. Don't let distractions compromise your vaginal health.

Sources:

"Lost Tampon", Estronaut, A Forum for Women's Health, www.estronaut.com
"Toxic Shock Syndrome," Kids Health for Parents, www.kidshealth.org