Dear Lolli24,

Yes. It can be dangerous to leave a tampon in during vaginal sex. The tampon is inserted into the vaginal canal — the same place a penis is inserted during penile-vaginal intercourse. It is possible for the penis to push the tampon too far up the vaginal canal and for the tampon to get wrapped around the cervix. This may be uncomfortable and very difficult to remove the tampon. It may also be uncomfortable for the guy.

Women who are menstruating should remove the tampon before having intercourse. (Keep in mind that a woman can get pregnant even if she has her period, so it's important for a woman to use a contraceptive every time she vaginal sex, whether or not she's having her period.)

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.