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Tampon Left In For Months? Here’s What Could Happen!

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Tampon Left In For Months? Here’s What Could Happen! <image-set>

Tampon Left In For Months? Here’s What Could Happen <Card>

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Have you ever __left__ a __tampon in for__ more than eight hours? Or __3 weeks__? Or __months__? That simply doesn’t sound about right! It isn’t uncommon to accidentally leave your tampon in. Many women are guilty of leaving __an old tampon inside__ their vaginas. Sometimes, they forget to remove the previous tampon and insert a new one. This pushes the old tampon behind and can cause some level of discomfort. 
<br>

Let’s understand what actually occurs if __a tampon is left in for months__ and what are the tell-a-tale __signs of a lost tampon__. While at it, learn how __a lost tampon will eventually come out__ and if so, __how to remove a stuck tampon__. 
<br>

- [What Happens If A Tampon is Left In For Months?](#what-happens-if-a-tampon-is-left-in-for-months)
- [How To Tell If A Tampon Is Still In?](#how-to-tell-if-a-tampon-is-still-in)
- [Can A Tampon Get Stuck?](#can-a-tampon-get-stuck)
- [How To Get A Stuck Tampon Out?](#how-to-get-a-stuck-tampon-out)


What Happens If A Tampon is Left In For Months

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If a __[tampon](https://always-africa.com/en-za/tampons) is left in for months__, there are chances of developing __toxic shock syndrome__. It is a rare yet serious health condition that is caused by the overgrowth of bacteria. Occasionally, this condition could lead to a drop in blood pressure levels, headache, convulsions, and sometimes even be fatal. Thus, seeking medical attention immediately is of utmost importance. It isn’t necessary that every woman who has a __tampon left in for 3 weeks__ or __months__ would develop this condition. However, the longer the tampon sits inside your vagina, the risk increases.
<br>

In milder cases, one might face vaginitis due to an __old tampon left inside__ for too long. It is an inflammation of the vagina caused by a bacterial imbalance. To avoid leaving a tampon for too long, make sure to use the [right size of tampons](/tips-and-advice-for-girls-and-parents/choosing-a-pad/how-to-choose-the-right-tampon-size-for-you) based on absorbency levels. Once full, your body would nudge you to remove the tampon. Thereby the chances of forgetting the tampon become relatively low. 
<br>

Try the [ALWAYS Tampax Cardboard Tampons](/tampons/always-tampax-cardboard) which come in different sizes and provide the best absorbency. Its innovative absorbent core locks the menstrual discharge and keeps you protected. The protective skirt lowers the risk of leakage. Lastly, the anti-slip applicator provides a seamless, smooth insertion.


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<h2 class="text-cobaltBlue">What Happens If A Tampon is Left In For Months? </h2>

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How To Tell If A Tampon Is Still In

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When a __tampon is left in for too long__, an awful __odour__ from your vagina is experienced. It can be accompanied by varied coloured [vaginal discharge](/tips-and-advice-for-women/vaginal-discharge/what-is-vaginal-discharge). It could be brown, grey, yellow or green. Apart from this, your body may display some additional __signs of a tampon left inside__. They are as follows:
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<h3 class="bluetext">1. Itchy vagina</h3>
<h3 class="bluetext">2. Redness or rash around the vagina</h3>
<h3 class="bluetext">3. Painful urination</h3>
<h3 class="bluetext">4. Foul odour with no discharge</h3>
<h3 class="bluetext">5. Fever more than 104°F</h3> 
<h3 class="bluetext">6. Pelvic pain</h3>
<br>

If you notice any of these signs, head to your doctor’s clinic immediately. He will be able to remove the tampon using the right measures. At the same time, he will also treat any infection effectively. 


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<h2 class="text-cobaltBlue">How To Tell If A Tampon Is Still In? </h2>

Can A Tampon Get Stuck

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Yes, there’s a possibility that a __tampon can get stuck__ due to the following scenarios:
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- <h3 class="bluetext">You insert a new tampon without removing the older one</h3>
- <h3 class="bluetext">You have intercourse without removing the tampon first</h3>
- <h3 class="bluetext">You forget to remove the tampon for a long time</h3>
- <h3 class="bluetext">The tampon is inserted incorrectly</h3>
<br>

To avoid such a situation, it is important to know [how to use a tampon correctly](/tips-and-advice-for-women/intimate-hygiene/how-to-use-a-tampon-step-by-step-guide). In some cases, the string might break and the tampon would move up your vagina. But worry not, it can’t get lost in your body. You will be able to remove a stuck tampon. 


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<h2 class="text-cobaltBlue">Can A Tampon Get Stuck?</h2>

How To Get A Stuck Tampon Out

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If you are wondering, “__Will a lost tampon eventually come out?__” The short answer is yes! If there are no signs of infection, you can get it out yourself. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get a stuck tampon out. But before that, wash your hands and make sure your nails are trimmed.
<br>
<h3 class="bluetext">1. Get into the squat position and apply pressure on your body as if you are having a bowel movement. </h3>
<h3 class="bluetext">2. Insert your finger in your vagina and locate the string of your tampon or the tampon itself. </h3>
<h3 class="bluetext">3. Insert two fingers and sweep them around the tampon. Once you get a hold of the tampon, gently pull it outside. </h3>

<br>

In case you can’t find or remove the tampon or there are some pieces left behind, it’s best to visit a doctor immediately! He will help you get rid of the tampon in the safest way possible. 


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<h2 class="text-cobaltBlue">How To Get A Stuck Tampon Out?</h2>

When To See A Doctor

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If you develop any signs of a lost tampon leading to TSS or infection, you should seek medical help immediately. Additionally, any changes in your vaginal discharge, be it colour, consistency or smell - needs to be notified to your doctor. 
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__Takeaway__
<br>

__A tampon left in for months__ is undoubtedly worrisome. As soon as you notice __signs of an old tampon left inside__, seek medical help. You can get a stuck tampon out yourself as well. But if it's been in for too long and causing infection, your doctor will be your best ally. So, worry not, __a lost tampon will eventually come out__. But remember to act fast. 
<br>

Now keep a track of your ovulation period with Aways [Fertile Days Calculator](/period-calculator).


<h2 class="text-cobaltBlue">When To See A Doctor? </h2>

__FAQs__<br><br>

<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#002abb">1. What happens if a tampon is left in for 3 weeks? </h2>
<br>

If a tampon is left in for 3 weeks, it could possibly cause bacterial infection or in rare cases conditions like toxic shock syndrome. Thus, changing your tampon from time to time is very important. 
<br>

<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#002abb">2. Will a forgotten tampon eventually come out? </h2>
<br>

Yes, __a forgotten tampon will eventually come out__. You need to be extra careful while removing it. If it is accompanied by infection, it's best to seek medical help.
<br>

<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#002abb">3. Can a tampon which is left in too long cause odour? </h2>
<br>

Yes, a tampon which is left in too long can cause a fishy, foul odour. It can be caused by the blood and bacteria present in the old tampon.


Disclaimer

__Disclaimer:__
<br>

Please note the date of the last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from your doctor or other qualified clinician. Always is committed to ensuring that all of our products meet rigorous safety standards; [Always pads prioritize safety](/about-us/inside-always-pads-safe), protection and comfort of its consumers. 


Left a tampon in for months? Can it cause infection? Learn at ALWAYS <Country_Name> the repercussions of a stuck tampon left in for months and how to remove it.