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First Aid & Emergencies

Call 911 NOW if you are having:

  • Chest Pain
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Severe Bleeding
  • Sudden Weakness or Numbness
  • A Medical Emergency
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Vaginal Foreign Body Treatment

Call 911 if:

  • The person shows signs of shock.

See Shock Treatment.

In an adult:

1. Remove Object, if Possible

  • A lost or forgotten tampon is the most common vaginal foreign body in women.
  • If the person can do so easily, have her remove the tampon or other foreign body.

 

2. When to See a Doctor

See a doctor immediately if:

  • The tampon or other foreign body cannot be removed easily.

 

3. Follow Up

If the person sees a doctor:

  • The doctor will remove the tampon or other foreign body by hand or using forceps.
  • If toxic shock syndrome is diagnosed, the person will likely be hospitalized.

 

In a child:

1. See a Doctor Immediately

  • Toilet paper is the most common vaginal foreign body in children.
  • Do not try to remove object because you could push it farther inside.

 

2. Follow Up

  • The doctor will remove the object and may use a topical antiseptic rinse.
  • Removal of a large or sharp foreign body may require sedation.
  • If you suspect the child has been sexually abused, tell the doctor.

 

WebMD Medical Reference

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Reviewed by Andrew Seibert, MD on October 04, 2011
© 2011 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

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