Patient education: Removing objects stuck in the vagina (The Basics)

What kind of objects commonly get stuck in the vagina? — 

Sometimes, objects that are designed for use in the vagina can get stuck. Other times, something that is not designed for use in the vagina is put there accidentally or intentionally.

When an object gets into the vagina that shouldn't be there, doctors sometimes call it a "foreign body."

Common things that can get stuck in the vagina and cause problems include:

●Tampons

●Birth control devices like a diaphragm, condom, or piece of condom

●Small pieces of toilet paper, cloth, or other fiber

●Items used for sex play, self-exploration, or other reasons

●Pessary devices used to support the pelvic organs

What symptoms can happen if an object gets stuck in my vagina? — 

This depends on the object, how long it has been there, and if the lining of your vagina or other internal organs are harmed.

Common symptoms include:

●A change in color, odor, or amount of vaginal discharge – This is the most common symptom.

●Vaginal bleeding, spotting, or bloody discharge

●Belly pain, or pain during sex

●Frequent urinary tract infections

●Problems urinating or having a bowel movement

What should I do if something gets stuck in my vagina? — 

The object needs to be removed as soon as possible. See your doctor or nurse if you:

●Cannot easily remove the object – Large objects can be difficult to remove.

●Are concerned a tampon, part of a tampon, or other object like a condom is still in your vagina

How will the doctor or nurse remove the object? — 

They will do a pelvic exam.

There are a few parts to the exam:

●External exam – This means looking at your vulva from the outside (figure 1). The vulva is the area around the opening of the vagina. The doctor will look for any problems, like tears or signs of irritation or infection.

●Speculum exam – A "speculum" is a device the doctor uses to see inside your vagina. They will use lubricant to help insert it gently. They will look at the inside of your vagina and at your cervix (figure 2). In many cases, they can also use small tools, like a grasper, to gently remove the object.

●Internal exam – The doctor will put 1 hand on your belly. With their other hand, they will put 1 or 2 gloved fingers into your vagina. This lets them feel your cervix, uterus, and ovaries.

●In rare cases, they might order an X-ray, ultrasound, or other imaging tests to see where the object is located. These create pictures of the inside of the body.

How do I care for myself after the object is removed? — 

Ask the doctor or nurse what to do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly how to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.

When should I call the doctor? — 

Call for advice if you:

●Have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or chills

●Have a change in color, odor, or amount of vaginal discharge

●Have unusual vaginal bleeding, spotting, or bloody discharge

●Have belly pain, or pain during sex

More on this topic

Patient education: Pelvic exam (The Basics)
Patient education: Vaginal discharge (The Basics)

Patient education: Vaginal discharge in adult women (Beyond the Basics)