Tampons are a common menstrual product used by menstruators around the world. While they are generally safe and easy to use, there is a small risk of complications, including tampon stuck in the vagina for months.
Leaving a tampon in for too long can cause a variety of health problems, including toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare but serious bacterial infection. Symptoms of TSS include fever, rash, and vomiting. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if you think you may have TSS.
If you think you may have a lost or forgotten tampon inside your vagina, it is important to see a doctor right away.
tampon stuck in vag for months
Leaving a tampon in for too long can have serious consequences.
- Toxic shock syndrome
- Infection
- Vaginal irritation
- Odor
- Pain
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Infertility
- Death
If you think you may have a lost or forgotten tampon, see a doctor immediately.
Toxic shock syndrome
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare but serious bacterial infection that can be caused by leaving a tampon in for too long.
- Bacteria overgrowth:
When a tampon is left in for too long, it can create a breeding ground for bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus (staph) and Streptococcus pyogenes (strep).
- Toxin production:
These bacteria can produce toxins, which are harmful substances that can enter the bloodstream and cause TSS.
- Symptoms of TSS:
Symptoms of TSS can include fever, chills, rash, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches, and confusion.
- TSS can be fatal:
If TSS is not treated promptly, it can be fatal.
If you think you may have TSS, seek medical attention immediately.
Infection
Leaving a tampon in for too long can also lead to infection. Bacteria can grow on the tampon and cause vaginitis, an inflammation of the vagina. Symptoms of vaginitis can include itching, burning, odor, and discharge.
In some cases, a tampon can also cause a more serious infection, such as toxic shock syndrome (TSS). TSS is a rare but life-threatening condition that is caused by bacteria that produce toxins. Symptoms of TSS can include fever, chills, rash, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches, and confusion.
If you think you may have an infection from a tampon, see a doctor right away. Treatment for an infection will depend on the type of infection you have.
To prevent infection, it is important to change your tampon every 4 to 8 hours, or more often if your flow is heavy. You should also avoid using tampons for more than one menstrual cycle.
If you have any questions or concerns about using tampons, talk to your doctor.