Condom Stuck in Vagina? Here’s What to Do

In the heat of the moment, it’s possible for foreign objects such as condoms to get stuck inside your vagina, whether you’re using them with sex toys or a partner. Yes, this is the not-so-steamy side of sex that you won’t hear people discuss openly. So if it happens to you, you’re maybe left feeling confused and possibly scared. The good news is that this isn't dangerous, and there are straightforward ways to deal with it. While you should stay calm, it’s important that you don’t ignore the problem altogether because foreign bodies left inside the vagina can cause health problems over time. 

If a condom gets stuck inside the vagina, it's important to remain calm and try to remove it gently with clean fingers. If you are unable to remove it yourself or if you experience discomfort or suspect a piece may be missing, it's crucial to seek professional help from a healthcare provider. 

How long can a condom stay inside you?

While we don't have exact numbers on how long a condom can remain stuck in one's vagina, the important thing is to address it sooner rather than later. However, it’s thought that such foreign bodies can go undetected for several days until they actually start to cause symptoms. In case you do notice that a condom has been lodged inside your vagina, it would be best to try removing it yourself, as soon as possible. Unlike tampons, condoms don't usually come out by themselves, so you'll likely need to remove it manually. If you can’t get it out yourself, don’t wait for symptoms to appear.

Symptoms of a condom stuck inside

Although it’s possible for a condom to remain stuck inside the vagina for a few days without you even realising it, eventually you may notice the following symptoms:

• Pain and cramping in the abdominal region

• Sensation of discomfort and the presence of a foreign body

• Abnormal discharge, possibly with foul odour

• Bleeding or spotting

• Fever and chills, if it causes an infection

What to do if a condom gets stuck?

If a condom does get stuck in your vagina, while this isn't a medical emergency, it's a fairly common occurrence that should be addressed promptly. The most helpful thing you can do is take a deep breath, staying relaxed will actually make things easier. A condom will not travel further in or disappear because it’s physically impossible for it to get past the cervix. When you’re calm, it will help relax the vaginal muscles too, making it easier to get to the condom and attempt self-removal. 

If you’re still unsure about what to do if a condom gets stuck inside, just talk to your doctor or visit a gynaecologist as soon as possible.

How to remove a stuck condom

Follow these simple steps to better understand how to remove a stuck condom yourself:

• Relax your pelvic floor muscles by breathing deeply.

• Wash your hands thoroughly and wear clean surgical gloves.

• Position yourself comfortably, such as sitting on the toilet or squatting so that you can easily access your vagina.

• Insert your fingers and feel around for the fold of the condom so that you can hold onto it.

• Pull gently once you get a grip on the condom with two fingers.

• If the condom is too slippery or fragmented to the extent that you can’t pull all of it out yourself, you’ll need medical assistance.

Important considerations: 

• Don't use sharp objects: Avoid using anything other than your fingers to retrieve the condom.

• Hygiene: Ensure your hands are clean before inserting them into your vagina. 

• Follow-up: If you see a doctor, make sure to follow their instructions and any recommended follow-up appointments. 

When to see a doctor?

Aside from cases where self-removal of a condom from inside the vagina fails, there are other situations in which you may need care from a medical professional. In some cases, you may manage to remove the condom but may not realise that it has fragmented, and a piece is left behind. Whether you are aware of the leftover fragments or not, you should see a doctor if you notice symptoms like pain, fever, swelling, discharge, and foul odour after the incident. 

Even small pieces of a condom that have torn off and remain inside the vagina should be removed and this will require clinical care.

Can you get pregnant or get an STI from a condom left inside?

Whether a condom tears during sex or slips off and gets stuck inside the vagina, the end result is the same. Semen can leak out of the condom, posing a significant risk of pregnancy. Keep in mind that a single ejaculation releases millions of sperm, while fertilisation of an egg for pregnancy requires just one healthy sperm. It's best to ask your doctor for further guidance.

There is also a high risk of STIs, as a condom only works to prevent infections when it serves as a barrier. In cases where the condom gets stuck inside, there is a high possibility of direct mucosal contact, which can transmit infections. 

Tips to prevent it in the future

Generally, condoms are highly effective at preventing pregnancy and protecting against sexually transmitted infections. When used properly they are unlikely to tear or slip off, and should therefore not get stuck in the vagina. To lower the risk of having a condom get stuck inside, follow these simple tips.

• Use the right size condoms and make sure that it is properly fitted and snug.

• Use a water-based or silicone-based lubricant in your vagina to prevent it from getting stuck.

• When putting it on, keep the tip pinched so that space is left for ejaculation, but without air pockets.

• When pulling out, your partner should hold onto the rim of the condom so that it isn’t left behind. 

Before you go 

Despite your best precautions, accidents can still occur from time to time, so it's helpful to be prepared. While having a condom get stuck in your vagina can feel a bit awkward, remember that it's a normal part of being sexually active. Healthcare providers see this all the time, so there's no need to feel embarrassed if you need help. The main thing is taking care of yourself and knowing that these things happen.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Can a condom remain stuck inside permanently?

No, this is highly unlikely as your body will alert you to its presence. You would notice symptoms such as irritation and discomfort or unusual discharge.

2. Can a condom stuck inside cause any complications?

The main risk of having a condom stuck inside is unwanted pregnancy or a sexually transmitted infection. But in rare cases, failure to remove foreign bodies like condoms can increase the risk of complications such as fistulas.

3. Why would a condom get stuck inside?

This usually happens due to condoms that are the wrong size, though inadequate lubrication and loss of erection during sex can also cause slippage.