Article Sections

Introduction

Vaginal foreign bodies are objects that become lodged in the vaginal canal, either intentionally or unintentionally.  This condition is more common in pediatric patients due to a variety of causes ranging from accidental insertion to incomplete removal of foreign objects (eg, tampons, vaginal devices, parts of medical instruments).

Risk factors and pathophysiology

A vaginal foreign body typically results from the intentional or unintentional placement of an object into the vaginal canal.  In children, this may occur accidentally or in association with abuse.  In adults, it may be related to sexual activity, forgotten tampons, vaginal devices, or surgical materials.

A retained foreign body can lead to chronic irritation of the vaginal mucosa, causing inflammation, infection, and discharge.  Over time, a foreign body may erode into adjacent structures such as the bladder or rectum, potentially forming fistulas.  Chronic retention increases the risk for secondary infections, ulceration, granulation tissue formation, and, rarely, systemic infection.

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