When is it Dangerous to Keep a Tampon Inside of You?

It is quite common for some individuals to unintentionally leave a tampon inside their vagina for days or even weeks, as noted by gynecologists. While this may seem unsettling, it occurs more frequently than one might assume.

Occasionally, women may forget that they are wearing a tampon, or they may be unsure of the appropriate duration to keep a tampon inserted in their vagina. This article will discuss tampon usage, the recommended duration for wearing a tampon, and what is considered safe versus unsafe.

Although this is not a comprehensive tutorial on tampon usage, it is crucial to understand how to use tampons safely to prevent discomfort or complications in the future.

The key points to remember:

• Wash your hands prior to inserting a tampon
• Only use a tampon during menstruation
• Change your tampon every 4-8 hours
• Ensure that the tampon string is always outside your vagina
• Consult your healthcare provider if you experience any discomfort or are unable to remove your tampon
• Understand what toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is, its symptoms, and risks

What happens if a tampon remains stuck inside the vagina or is forgotten?

Ensuring that the tampon string remains outside the vagina is crucial, as it can become lodged near the cervix. If you are unable to locate the tampon string or retrieve it manually, seeking assistance from a healthcare professional is necessary.

There is also a risk of forgetting about the tampon and leaving it inserted for a prolonged period, exceeding the recommended 8-hour limit.

“I once removed a tampon from a patient after three weeks, and she was still fine,” states Leena Nathan, MD, an OB/GYN at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center.

While this may not always lead to complications, it is not advisable to neglect monitoring the duration of tampon usage. Prolonged use could result in serious conditions if a tampon is left inside for an extended period, such as toxic shock syndrome (TSS)…

What is toxic shock syndrome (TSS)?

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare yet severe complication caused by certain bacterial infections releasing toxins into the bloodstream. These toxins can travel to vital organs, leading to significant damage and illness.

While anyone can be affected by TSS, individuals using super-absorbent tampons face an increased risk. This is because super-absorbent tampons require less frequent changes, allowing bacteria more time to grow and potentially drying out the vaginal mucosa.

Staphylococcus TSS is commonly associated with tampon use among the various types of TSS.

Symptoms of Staphylococcus TSS include:

• Fever

…

Bacterial vaginosis (BV): “Sometimes, your vagina’s normal, healthy bacteria can overgrow, which causes an imbalance known as bacterial vaginosis,” says women’s health specialist, Sara Youngblood, CNP. This bacterial overgrowth can be a result of leaving a tampon in for too long. 

Vulvitis: “If you have allergies or sensitivities to fragrances, leaving a scented tampon in too long could lead to vulvitis, an inflammation of the vulva,” says Youngblood.

Genital contact allergy: It’s possible for some women to have an allergic reaction to tampons. And, of course, if a tampon is left inside of the vagina for too long, the symptoms, such as itchiness, soreness, or rashes, will be worse.

How long should you keep a tampon inside of your vagina?

A tampon can be safely worn inside the vagina for 4-8 hours. It is recommended not to exceed 8 hours to avoid the aforementioned health risks.

According to Youngblood:

“We recommend changing your tampon every four to six hours, although some individuals may change them more frequently during heavy flow. Never leave the same tampon in for longer than eight hours, as this increases the risk.”

Can you sleep with a tampon inside?

It is generally safe to sleep with a tampon inserted as long as it does not exceed 8 hours. Inserting a new tampon before bedtime and replacing it in the morning is advised to prevent health risks,” recommends Youngblood.

However, if your sleep duration exceeds 8 hours or if your sleep patterns are irregular, using a pad or menstrual cup for overnight protection is a more suitable and safer alternative.

How can you prevent wearing a tampon for too long?

• Ensure you have a supply of tampons throughout your menstrual cycle.
• If wearing a tampon during menstruation, plan your activities near bathroom facilities.
• If prolonged access to a restroom is not feasible, consider using a menstrual cup for peace of mind.

Signs that indicate a tampon has been left in for too long

A noticeable indicator of prolonged tampon use is the presence of a foul-smelling discharge.

“Pay attention if the discharge appears pink, green, yellow, or brown with an unpleasant odor,” suggests Christine Greves, MD, an OB/GYN at the center for obstetrics and gynecology at Orlando Health in Florida.

Monitoring your body and its sensations is essential, as this symptom may occur days or weeks later, making it challenging to establish the connection. Utilizing period-tracking apps can help track your menstrual cycle, making it easier to identify any signs of prolonged tampon use.