Wash your hands thoroughly
Relax your body and breathe slowly
Sit on the toilet or squat with your knees apart
Bear down gently as if having a bowel movement
Insert one or two clean fingers into the vagina
Feel for the tampon string or the tampon itself
Hook a finger around the tampon and pull it out slowly
If you find the string, pull it out gently and steadily
If the tampon feels dry, bear down again and try to reach it from a different angle
Use a clean lubricant on your fingers if needed
Stop if you feel pain, dizziness, or significant discomfort
Do not use tools or sharp objects
If you cannot remove it, contact a doctor, urgent care, or gynecologist
Seek prompt medical help if you have fever, foul-smelling discharge, severe pain, or feel unwell
