How do you get a stuck tampon out (safely!!!)?

[Anonymous]

I know that this is super embarrassing, but I went to take out my tampon and the string wasn't there. I've concluded my tampon has gone on a quest of its own and I need to get it out before I have a serious problem. I squatted, put my finger inside in search of this missing tampon (I know it's in there), pushed like when doing a bowel movement, but nothing. I was thinking of running some water for a bath and maybe soaking in that and hoping it comes out, but I've read that tampons don't just "come out". If this doesn't come out soon, I will go get medical assistance, but for now, have any of you ladies out there had this problem? How did you solve it? Sorry, I know it's a bit awkward!

[Tearsoflaughter]

If you are sure that you have a lost tampon and can’t easily find the removal string, there are some things you can do to make finding and removing easier. First, before you get started wash your hands. Then squat and bear down. Pretend you are giving birth or having a bowel movement. The tampon may be in a location high inside of you, close to your cervix. Bearing down will help ease it into a more easy to reach position. Then try to find it with one finger. Once you have located it, use your finger and thumb to grab onto it and pull it out. You may also want to bear down while you pull it out. Make sure when you remove it that everything was removed. If it has started to disintegrate and you aren’t sure if you got all the pieces out, call your doctor. Tampon remnants left behind can lead to a serious infection and must be removed.

[Asker]

Wow, you seem to know a lot about this process. I've tried this and I think I accidentally scratched myself. Do you know of any way to get it out without putting my fingers waay up there?

[Tearsoflaughter]

At this point not really. I think your best bet as embarrassing as it may be would be to seek the help of a medical professional. Toxic shock isn't something to mess around with and the longer it or portions of it stay up there the more the danger increases. If you have any medical gloves in house you may consider putting them on before continuing to explore especially if you have long fingernails are are concerned about causing scratches. Good luck and don't wait beyond tomorrow to seek help if you can't find it. Eve if you do get it out keep an eye on your health if you feel a fever or such coming on in the next few days see a doctor to be safe. Good luck hun

[Asker]

Thanks! It's only been seven hours so far (I've heard of people who have had their tampon in for weeks... I'm not going to let it get that gross). I'll try later on when I'm not as tense.

[Asker]

I'm going to try a few more times and then if it still isn't out in an hour or two then I'm going to the ER for a little assistance.

[Tearsoflaughter]

Boo. Good luck hun do me a favor if you would and reply that you're okay if you do end up going. And don't blame yourself or be embarrassed it happens.

[Asker]

Thanks. Since I live with my parents, my mom is going to take me when she gets back. I hear this kind of thing isn't very uncommon, so I'm hoping it goes by quickly and painlessly and then I'll be fine.

[Paige90]

You are a guy!!

[2248646]

Your lips are sealed now!!!