In my previous pregnancies, I wasn’t expecting a positive test result. In fact, I was at the ready prepared for my visit from the menstrual monster! Tampons at the ready led me to think about whether it could have hurt my pregnancy if I used a tampon before I knew I was pregnant. Can they increase the risk of miscarriage?
I Used a Tampon Before I Knew I Was Pregnant – What Now?
Will a tampon hurt if you are pregnant? Generally, many women tend to avoid using tampons once they find out they are pregnant. Any medical professional will warn you that inserting a tampon to help subside discharge or spotting can introduce germs and bacteria into the vagina which can hurt your baby.
Are Tampons Safe During Pregnancy?
The first thing that sprung to my mind after seeing my positive test result was “Hooray! No period for 40 weeks!” Honestly, this felt amazing no tampons or pads needed. Or so I thought.
The actual fact is you can spot during pregnancy and the amount of discharge you lose is disgusting. This can make you want to reach for the tampons to help control your loss. But what happens if I wear a tampon while pregnant?
The use of tampons should be avoided during pregnancy. Inserting them directly into the vagina can pose the risk of inserting germs and bacteria that can harm your unborn baby. Your cervix is an amazing muscle that works hard to keep the nasties at bay but it cannot keep everything out!
If you notice a significant loss in discharge or blood loss then you can opt to wear a long pad to protect your underwear. In fact, I think I prefer this method as you can keep an eye on the amount of loss you have.
Always seek medical advice if there is a need for multiple pad changes in one day.
To officially answer the question can you use tampons while pregnant?
Nope, and below are more detailed reasons why.
How Dangerous Are Tampons During Pregnancy?
We have already discussed that tampons should be avoided during pregnancy but here are some dangers of using tampons when pregnant.
‣ Bacteria
As previously mentioned with every tampon you can introduce more germs and bacteria into the vagina. It makes you think about using them whilst you’re not pregnant. Inserting them directly into your body is thought to be safe for you but not for a growing fetus. Many bacteria can cause birth defects and harm your baby’s development.
‣ TSS
TSS known as Toxic Shock Syndrome is not a very common condition yet the use of tampons when pregnant or not can leave you vulnerable.
You subject yourself to TSS when a tampon has been left in for too long, which if you are pregnant, your loss will be considerably less meaning you may leave a tampon in for longer than you would normally.
Whilst this condition is uncommon it can pose a huge danger to not only your baby’s life but it can be life-threatening for you as well.
Symptoms of TSS include:
Fever, seizures, low blood pressure, and many more. Not really desirable to reach for that tampon now is it?
‣ Noticing a Change
I prefer using pads during my monthly period so I can keep an eye on my loss. Now don’t get me wrong I don’t sit and examine but I know I am more in tune with my body when using pads.
During pregnancy it’s important to keep a check on everything, discharge, spotting even if you become a little incontinent! Using a pad will help uncover if there is anything untoward being lost. As soon as you notice a change it is important to contact your doctor.
‣ Irritation
Your hormones are having a party in your body at the moment. Being pregnant they are raging all over your body. This in turn changes the balance within your vagina. Using tampons can dry out the good bacteria leaving you feeling overly dry down below. Anyone who has had to pull out an undersaturated tampon will understand how uncomfortable it is.
Using Tampons During Miscarriage
A heartbreaking loss may leave you reaching for the box of tampons. There could be something symbolic in plugging the loss but please if you can refrain.
Your body is expelling all tissues that it no longer needs meaning that your cervix is vulnerable to infection which in turn could lead you to have further complications when trying for another baby.
I Used a Tampon Before I Knew I Was Pregnant
Wearing a tampon before your period should be avoided but if you are in tune to your cycle you may opt to wear one before your period starts properly.
If you are using tampons then you should stop immediately after finding out. We have identified the risks of wearing a tampon when pregnant but worrying about whether you have caused any harm to your baby before finding out can take its toll.
Your OBGYN won’t be overly concerned in the first instance as with the missed arrival of your period it’s unlikely that you have changed regularly and with pulling out a dry tampon any woman will refrain from inserting another.
Wrapping Up
I used a tampon before I knew I was pregnant, will it cause a problem? Potentially yes!
Being prepared for your menstrual cycle isn’t a bad idea. In fact many moms have been in this situation with only a select few frantically researching whether they have harmed their baby.
According to the American Pregnancy Association (APP) you should avoid using tampons as the risk for infection can affect your baby. However, using a tampon before recognizing you are pregnant won’t pose any lasting damage, but as soon as you know, stop.
My best advice would be don’t worry about what you have used in the past and focus on the future. This is time to enjoy your pregnancy.