How to Remove a Tampon

Change your tampon every 3-5 hours to prevent overflow. Although a tampon can be worn for up to 8 hours, it's generally recommended to change it more frequently. Depending on how heavy your flow is, it’s best to replace your tampon after 3-5 hours to avoid leakage.

• If you leave a tampon in for longer than 8 hours, you risk developing Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), a rare but potentially fatal infection.
• If, when removing your tampon, you find it still absorbs well and only a small amount of blood is present, consider switching to a tampon with a lower absorbency level. Choose the least absorbent tampon suitable for your flow.

Replace the tampon if it feels wet. This indicates that the tampon can no longer absorb and menstrual blood is leaking out.

• Consider using a thin pad if you're concerned about the tampon overflowing.

Check the tampon if you feel uncomfortable. When used properly, you shouldn't feel the tampon at all. If you can feel it, it may be too shallow. Wash your hands and gently push the tampon deeper into the vagina with one finger.

• If the tampon doesn't move or causes pain, it might be due to vaginal dryness. You should remove the tampon and start over. It may also be helpful to use a tampon with lower absorbency.

Change the tampon if you pull the string and it easily slides out. Every time you use the restroom, try pulling the tampon string. If the tampon slides out easily, it's time to replace it with a new one.

Replace the tampon if you notice blood on the string. Even if the tampon isn't full or doesn't slide out easily, if the string is stained with blood, it means leakage is imminent.

Check for Toxic Shock Syndrome symptoms. Remove the tampon and seek medical attention immediately if you experience the following: a sudden high fever (above 39°C); a sunburn-like rash anywhere on your body; dizziness or faintness when standing, vomiting, or diarrhea. These are symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome. While rare, this condition requires prompt treatment to prevent serious consequences, including death.

Sit on the toilet and spread your legs. Sitting on the toilet will help you avoid making a mess in your surroundings.

Relax. Removing a tampon should not be painful. If you feel tense, take a deep breath and distract yourself by reading a magazine. Avoid clenching your vaginal muscles.

• If you’re unable to relax, try urinating a little. This can help loosen your vaginal muscles, making it easier to remove the tampon.

Pull the string at the base of the tampon. The tampon should come out easily, typically with little or no friction.

• If you can’t remove the tampon easily or feel discomfort, it may not be time to change it yet. Unless it’s been around 8 hours (if that’s the case, try urinating to make removal easier), you can leave the tampon in for another hour or two and check again.
• If you remove the tampon after 4-8 hours and find only a small amount of blood, it’s best to switch to a tampon with lower absorbency or use a pad instead.

Once you've removed the tampon, wrap it in toilet paper and dispose of it in the trash. Many tampon brands claim their products are flushable, but it’s safer not to flush them. Tampons break down slowly and, while they will eventually disintegrate, they can expand and clog pipes, damage septic tanks, and cause other (expensive) issues.

Don’t panic. A tampon can’t get lost in your body, even if the string is broken or you can’t locate it.

Wash your hands with soap and warm water. Wet your hands, apply soap, rinse, and wash thoroughly with water. Be sure to dry your hands with a clean towel.

• Hands can carry harmful bacteria.
• Avoid long or sharp nails to prevent scratching your body.

Assume the same position you would when inserting a tampon. For example, you can sit on the toilet, squat, or stand with one leg placed on the toilet seat. Choose the position that feels most comfortable, take a deep breath, and try to relax your body.

Insert your index finger into your vagina and feel for the tampon. Move your finger in a circular motion from front to back until you locate the tampon. It may have shifted to the side or moved deeper into the vaginal canal, closer to the cervix and bladder.

Insert two fingers into the vagina, pinch the tampon, and gently pull it out.

• If you can't find the tampon or have difficulty removing it, try sitting on the toilet and pushing as if you were giving birth or passing a stool.