Dear Iris,

I accidently left the same tampon in for a month. I don't know how I did this. Is anything going to happen from this? Do I need to see a doctor?

Thanks,
Stacey


Dear Stacey,

Tampons cannot get lost in the vagina. If you accidently left one in from your last period you might experience localized inflammation, causing a discolored vaginal discharge and a foul odor. Squat down and insert your thumb and forefinger into your vagina. Sweep the fingers back and forth and try to feel the cord or tampon itself. Once you feel the tampon/cord, grasp it and pull it out. If you cannot find the tampon you will have to see a doctor. It is important that you get the tampon out as soon as you can. No tampon should be left in your vagina for more than 8 hours.

Iris