What to Do If You Think a Tampon Is Lost
It’s a situation that every menstruating woman might find herself in at some point: you insert a tampon, and suddenly, you’re not sure where it is. Whether it’s slipped out of place or you think it might have gotten lost inside, it can be a daunting experience. Here’s what you can do if you think a tampon is lost.
First and foremost, don’t panic. Losing a tampon is not the end of the world, and it’s actually quite common. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, about 5-10% of women experience a tampon getting lost during their menstrual cycle. Here are some steps you can take to handle the situation:
1. Relax and Stay Calm: Losing a tampon can be unsettling, but staying calm is essential. If you panic, you might inadvertently push the tampon further into the vagina or cause yourself unnecessary stress.
2. Check the toilet: Sometimes, the tampon might have fallen into the toilet bowl. Flush the toilet a few times to see if it comes out. If it does, you’re in luck. If not, it’s time to move on to the next step.
3. Inspect your underwear: Look for any pieces of the tampon in your underwear. It might have torn during insertion or come out on its own. If you find a piece, you can remove it.
4. Try to feel it: Gently insert your finger into the vagina and feel around for the tampon. If you can feel it, you might be able to gently pull it out. Be careful not to push it further in or cause any pain.
5. Use a speculum: If you’re unable to find the tampon by hand, you can use a speculum to help locate it. Insert the speculum into the vagina and gently move it around until you feel the tampon. Once you find it, you can gently remove it.
6. Seek medical help: If you’ve tried the above steps and still can’t find the tampon, or if you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, or discharge, it’s best to seek medical help. A healthcare provider can safely remove the tampon for you.
7. Prevent it from happening again: To avoid losing a tampon in the future, consider switching to a different brand or type. Some women find that tampons with a lower absorbency or a smaller size are less likely to get lost.
Remember, losing a tampon is not a reflection of your hygiene or health. It’s just one of those things that can happen, and it’s always better to be prepared and know what to do if it happens to you.
