What to Do If a Tampon Is Stuck: Safe Removal Guide

A tampon can get "stuck" by forgetting to take it out and inserting a new one or having intercourse without removing it. Many times a smaller tampon can get misplaced during an exercise workout. A tampon can only go so far, and there's no way it can get truly lost. Therefore, it can't work its way through the uterus and up through the abdomen. If the string is not reachable, try these steps.

Instructions

• 1

  Wash your hands before trying to retrieve the stuck tampon. Clipping your nails may be a good idea too.

• 2

  Sit on the toilet and prop your feet upon a trashcan or the bathtub and bear down as if you're straining to have a bowel movement. Sometimes this can force the tampon out.

• 3

  Insert your finger into your vagina as far as possible. Bear down to try to push the tampon out.

• 4

  Make circular motions with your finger between the cervix and the vagina. This is where most stuck tampons are.

• 5

  Find the tampon, and insert another finger. Catch the tampon between your fingers and try to pull it out.

• 6

  Call your doctor if you can't find the tampon or retrieve it. If it is left inside of you, it could cause an infection.

• 7

  Soak in a warm bath to try and get the tampon wet. Sometimes if it's too dry, it appears stuck.