Your menstrual cycle doesn’t have to be a hindrance to your sex life. Some people don’t mind period sex. Although it’s a completely personal choice, is it wise to wear a menstrual product while having sex? The thought of having sex with a tampon can make you wonder if you should take it out first or just proceed with intercourse.
Can you have sex with a tampon?
Penetrative sex with tampons is not recommended, says Dr Aruna Kumari, obstetrician and gynaecologist. Here are some problems you may encounter:
1. Discomfort or pain
Friction and movement during sexual activity can cause discomfort or pain as the tampon can be pushed deeper into the vagina.
2. Difficulty removing the tampon
Since intercourse can push the tampon further into the vagina, it will be difficult to remove it. You may even need medical attention if the tampon becomes inaccessible.
3. Increased risk of infection
Having sex with a tampon can increase the risk of bacterial infections by introducing additional bacteria into the vagina, the expert tells Health Shots.
4. Tearing or irritation
The delicate vaginal tissues may be more prone to tearing or irritation during tampon sex, especially if the period product is dry.
5. Tampon breaking
The tampon can break during sexual activity, leading to the possibility of tampon fibers remaining in the vagina, which could increase the risk of infections.
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6. Disturbance of pH balance
Inserting foreign objects such as a tampon into the vagina during sex can disrupt the natural pH balance. This can lead to irritation down there or an increased risk of infection.
7. Increased risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome
Although rare, using tampons during sex can increase the risk of toxic shock syndrome, Dr. Kumari says. It is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition caused primarily by superantigen-producing Staphylococcus aureus. They present with high fever, rashes, hypotension, desquamation, myalgia that later leads to multiple organ failure.
What to do if a tampon is pressed too hard?
If you end up having sex with a tampon and it’s too much pressure, you can do the following.”
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to minimize the risk of infection.
• Find a comfortable position, such as squatting or sitting on the toilet, to make tampon access easier.
• Gently insert your fingers into your vagina and try to locate the tampon. It can help you feel like you have a bowel movement, which can bring the tampon lower.
• It is important to relax your pelvic muscles to facilitate removal.
• If a position does not work, try changing positions and repeat the process.
• If the tampon is dry, applying a water-based lubricant to your fingers can make it easier to slide out. Avoid using oil-based lubricants as they can damage the tampon or increase the risk of infection.
Do not use sharp objects or tools to try to remove the tampon, as this may cause injury or increase the risk of infection. If you cannot remove the tampon yourself or feel pain, ask a doctor for help.
Can tampons help prevent pregnancy?
It may seem that using tampons to absorb sperm is a good way to prevent pregnancy, but it is not true. Tampons are designed to absorb menstrual blood and are in no way linked to contraception or pregnancy prevention, the expert says. If you are sexually active and want to prevent pregnancy, it is important to use a reliable form of contraception, such as condoms, hormonal birth control methods, and an intrauterine device (IUD).
Tips for safe tampon use
Using a tampon safely is important to prevent discomfort, infection, and other potential problems. Here are some tips for safe tampon use:
• Read the instructions before using tampons. This includes information on admission, removal and disposal.
• Choose the appropriate tampon absorbency for your period.
• Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before inserting or removing a tampon.
• Find a comfortable position for insertion and place the tampon correctly.
• It is generally recommended not to use tampons during the night. Choose pads or menstrual cups during sleep to reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome.
You should also give your body a break from tampons by switching between pads or menstrual cups. This can help reduce the risk of irritation or infection down there.
