HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

I Understand That This Is Ridiculous But It Has Me

default
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?
doctor
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
Note: Get personalized answers to your HIV related queries You can choose to talk face to face with your doctor. Book a Video Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Sankaranantham Murugan

HIV AIDS Specialist

Practicing since :1974

Answered : 3110 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
I Understand That This Is Ridiculous But It Has Me

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