I Understand That This Is Ridiculous But It Has Me

Posted on Tue, 19 Nov 2019

Question: I understand that this is ridiculous but it has me super stressed. I work at a hospital and accidentally dropped my tampon in the top of the toilet bowl. Without thinking about it I inserted it, and now I’m nervous. Am I at any risk for HIV?

Answered by Dr. Sankaranantham Murugan (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Risk of HIV infection is negligible

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Welcome to ASK A DOCTOR
Thank you for posting your query.
HIV can not be viable outside the body fluids for not more than few seconds.
So the risk of HIV transmission or getting an HIV infection through reinserting the tampon fallen over the top of a toilet is negligible.
But there is a possibility of bacterial or Trichomonal or candidal infections can not be ruled out.
At the same time human adult vagina has adequate immunity against bacterial infection and to an extent to other infections also owing to their acidic pH and epithelial coverings.
So not to worry. If you experience any discomfort you please consult your doctor.
Dr S.Murugan

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T