An Embarrassing question...Tampon Forgot...:(

Updated on November 24, 2008
S.A. asks from Ontario, OR
15 answers

Hi,

I have an extremely embarrassing question. I have been noticing an odor "down there" and come to find out I forgot I had a tampon in. I removed it and it was very gross, I feel fine, no fever or cramping. Has anyone ever had this happen to them? If so, how do you get the odor gone? Also, what do I need to do?

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So What Happened?

I want to thank everyone who responded. It is also good to know that I am not the only one. The odor has almost gone away and I think me getting over it is there also. I am taking my probiotics and keeping myself clean. I think maybe I need to slow down a little...haha ya right..I am a mom and doing childcare for twins.

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A.

answers from Denver on

I would actually place a call to planned parenthood. you can bet they will be more knowledgeable about this situation than any one.

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D.K.

answers from Denver on

It happened to me a long time ago. I know exactely what you are describing! Be thankful there may be no infection, call your OBGYN and ask if you should be worried. They may have you in for to check for infection. I think I ended up with a vinager and water douche to help remove the bateria build up and help the odor. Just call your Dr, it isn't horrible, lordy, like our lives are full of stuff going on.
To be honest since having kids I don't use them anymore, that being one of the reasons not to mention it doesn't feel right anymore! :) Good luck.

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K.F.

answers from Boise on

I would recommend going to see your doctor. The odor signifies bacteria are present even if there is no fever or cramping. I would not douche unless the Dr. advises it. Better to be safe than sorry. Good luck.

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M.O.

answers from Denver on

All I can say is...Don't Douche. That could force any bacteria that developed farther into your body and cause a problem.

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D.J.

answers from Fort Collins on

Yes very embarrassing but at least you figured it out...I went to the doctor. My MD removed it and told me no worries it happens and all should be well. Life gets crazy! If the odor doesn't go away within a few days you could douche but I would only use water with vinegar no chemicals.

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M.G.

answers from Denver on

Although I am not a big fan of douching, you may want to try it, however talk to your OB/GYN first. It could force bacteria further up into your body. And don't worry, I'm sure you aren't the only one who this has happened to.

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P.G.

answers from Salt Lake City on

Several years ago I had the same experience. I was sitting in close quarters and noticed an odor coming from somewhere really close. It wasn't until I got home from the event and settled down at home that I realized the smell was coming from me. As I checked it out I removed two tampons. It was sure gross. I just washed my clothing, showered and took care of the problem. After that the odor went away. Good luck.

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A.P.

answers from Denver on

As a nurse we will occasionally see this in the clinic. My best advice to you, if the odor is still present, would be to see your local doctor. Don't let a vaginal infection go untreated as it may lead to further problems. If the odor has cleared and you have no fever or chills your probably in the clear.
Take care and best of luck.

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D.W.

answers from Boise on

Douche with vinegar and water. Eat good yogurt for a couple days, or take acidolphilus pills.

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T.F.

answers from Billings on

Well... I personally would douche and then maybe soak in a tub for a while with some sweet smelling oil in it. Good Luck! Life gets hectic do not beat yourself up over this.

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D.S.

answers from Denver on

You shouldn't have to do anything. Your body will naturally discharge the odor. If, however, it continues for more than a week, see your doctor to see if you have an infection. Don't douche! It will increase your risk of infections. Hope this helps!

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M.B.

answers from Salt Lake City on

You probably have a bacterial infection that is causing the odor. Call your obgyn and make an appointment so they can do a culture and get you an antibiotic. Good luck!

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S.C.

answers from Grand Junction on

I think most women have done this at one time or another - and although I usually tell people to see the doctor no matter what, I know times are hard and visits are expensive, so if you have no signs of an infection, you'll probably be ok - I don't think the smell is necessarily a tissue infection. If you'd like to visit the doctor to be sure - and you should if you develop any signs like fever, flu-like symptoms, or a rash that looks like a sunburn on your torso - just go - they've heard it all. I wouldn't bother being too embarrassed. If you douche with vinegar (cut with water of course) you will restore your ph and the odor will go away naturally. It's a self-cleaning organ after all. The vinegar will help. Another thing to try is to sit in a shallow bathtub with water and pour a bottle of lemon juice in the water and use that to clean yourself. But like I said, if you have any symptoms at all - go to the doctor fast for antibiotics and tell him or her exactly what the situation is - toxic shock is nothing to wait and see on.

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A.W.

answers from Pocatello on

I see you have gotten a few responses...I'll keep it short. You can also douche with water with a couple drops of tea tree oil diluted in it. Tea tree oil is a natural antifungal. I have done it before when I had the first syptoms of a yeast infection...clears up right away. leaves a very fresh feeling (kinda like mouthwash! :)

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M.B.

answers from Denver on

Hi S.,
I would chalk this up to lesson learned and maybe a sign to not forget again! As far as the other issue I would call my OB's office and speak to the nurse, or look on line! Good luck!

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