You reach for your progesterone suppository, following your routine, only to realize moments later that you’ve accidentally put it in your urethra instead of where it’s meant to go. It’s an easy mistake to make, but it can leave you panicked and uncomfortable. So what now?
Let’s breakdown what happens in such situations.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Difference: Vaginal vs Urethral Openings
Let’s get real – when you’re doing the nightly progesterone shuffle in poor lighting, distinguishing between openings that are literally centimeters apart isn’t exactly a cakewalk. And contrary to what those pristine anatomical diagrams suggest, it’s not always obvious which is which when you’re awkwardly positioned with a melting suppository in hand.
Here’s your practical anatomy crash course: Picture the area like a triangle. The urethra (where you accidentally put that suppository) is that tiny opening at the top – about the size of a pinhead. It’s located just above and in front of your vaginal opening, which is larger and more obvious. Think of it this way: if you’re meeting resistance or the opening feels unusually small, you’ve probably got the wrong spot.
Pro tip: Do a test run during daylight hours. Use a clean finger to locate both openings while you’re not stressed about a melting suppository. Some women find it helpful to use their other hand to spread the labia for better visibility. Unlike the urethra, the vaginal opening should easily accommodate your finger.
Quick ways to spot the difference:
- Size matters: Vaginal opening is notably larger
- Location check: Urethra is above, vagina is below
- Resistance test: If you’re meeting unusual resistance, pause and recheck
Remember: The vaginal opening is designed for insertion. If you’re pushing harder than you would to insert a tampon, something’s not right. Take a breath, readjust, and try again.
Immediate Steps if Progesterone Enters the Urethra
You’ve realized your progesterone suppository went into the wrong opening – now what? First, don’t panic. While uncomfortable, this situation is manageable with the right steps. Here’s what you need to do right now:
Immediate Actions:
- Stop any attempts to “fish it out” – this could cause more harm than good.
- Empty your bladder completely if you feel the urge.
- Drink 2-3 glasses of water to help flush your urinary system
- Note the time this happened (your doctor may ask)
What NOT to Do:
- Don’t try to insert any tools or objects to remove it
- Avoid using any vaginal douches or washing solutions
- Don’t immediately insert another suppository until speaking with your healthcare provider
Watch for These Reactions:
- Burning sensation during urination
- Mild discomfort in the urethral area
- Slight urgency to urinate frequently
When to Call Your Doctor Immediately:
- Severe burning or pain that doesn’t subside
- Blood in urine
- Difficulty urinating
- Fever or chills
Most people experience only temporary discomfort that resolves within a few hours. However, if you’re on a strict fertility medication schedule, contact your clinic’s after-hours line for guidance about your next dose. They might need to adjust your medication timing or provide specific instructions.
Remember: Your fertility clinic or doctor(aka: your gynaecologist) has probably handled this situation before. Don’t feel embarrassed about calling them – they’re there to help ensure your treatment stays on track.
Potential Effects and Symptoms to Watch For
If you’ve accidentally put progesterone suppository in your urethra, understanding the potential effects can help ease your anxiety. While this mishap can feel alarming, knowing what to expect in the hours following an accidental urethral insertion of progesterone suppository can help you monitor your symptoms effectively.
Common Reactions After Accidentally Putting Progesterone Suppository in Urethra
- A burning sensation that typically lasts 2-4 hours
- Mild urethral irritation
- Increased urinary frequency
- Slight discomfort during urination
- Temporary urinary urgency
Many patients who have accidentally put progesterone suppository in their urethra report that these symptoms typically resolve within 24 hours. The progesterone itself isn’t harmful to your urinary tract – it’s the base ingredients in the suppository that may cause temporary irritation.
Expected Timeline
- First few hours: Most intense symptoms
- 4-6 hours: Gradual decrease in discomfort
- 12-24 hours: Resolution of most symptoms
Red Flags That Need Medical Attention
- Severe burning that doesn’t improve
- Difficulty passing urine
- Blood in urine
- Fever above 100.4°F (38°C)
- Lower back pain
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
The good news?
Most cases where someone has accidentally put progesterone suppository in their urethra resolve without complications. Your body’s natural urinary flow will help flush out the dissolved medication.
Remember: While the situation is uncomfortable, the progesterone hormone itself won’t cause lasting damage to your urinary tract. However, monitoring your symptoms is crucial for catching any potential complications early.
Pro Tip: Keep a symptom diary after accidentally putting progesterone suppository in your urethra. This information can be valuable if you need to consult your healthcare provider.
Prevention Tips for Future Applications
After experiencing the discomfort of a misplaced suppository, you’ll want to ensure it never happens again. Here are proven strategies that experienced progesterone users and fertility specialists recommend:
Lighting Matters
- Always use adequate lighting.
- Consider installing a small night light in your bathroom for those late-night doses.
- Avoid complete darkness, even if you think you know your anatomy well
Position and Technique
- Try different positions to find what works best (lying down, squatting, or standing with one leg elevated)
- Most users find lying down with knees bent works best
- Use a mirror if needed until you’re confident about placement
Practical Tips That Work
- Insert suppositories after emptying your bladder
- Keep tissues nearby for any melting residue
- Consider wearing a thin glove or finger cot if melting is an issue
- Use a suppository inserter if your doctor approves (similar to tampon applicators)
- Mark your suppository with a small notch at the insertion end before unwrapping
Timing Considerations
- Set a specific time for insertion when you’re less likely to be exhausted
- If possible, schedule insertions before bedtime rather than middle-of-night doses
- Take an extra minute to double-check positioning before insertion
Remember: If you’re unsure about proper insertion technique, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider for a demonstration using a model. It’s a common request and they’re there to help you succeed with your treatment.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
While many people who have accidentally put progesterone suppository in urethra manage without complications, certain situations require medical attention. Understanding when to reach out to your healthcare provider is crucial for your safety and treatment success.
Urgent Symptoms After Accidentally Putting Progesterone Suppository in Urethra
- Severe burning that persists beyond 24 hours
- Difficulty urinating or complete inability to urinate
- Blood in urine (even small amounts)
- Fever or chills
- Lower abdominal pain
- Signs of urinary tract infection
What to Tell Your Provider When You Call
- Time when you accidentally put progesterone suppository in urethra
- Exact symptoms you’re experiencing
- Whether this has happened before
- Current medications you’re taking
- Whether you’ve inserted another dose since the incident
- Any attempts you’ve made to address the situation
Non-Emergency Situations That Still Need Reporting
- Concerns about your hormone therapy schedule
- Questions about proper insertion technique
- Need for alternative application methods
- Persistent mild discomfort
- Uncertainty about next dosage timing
Documentation Tips
Keep track of:
- All symptoms and their duration
- Any remedies you’ve tried
- Your regular dosing schedule
- Any missed or delayed doses
Remember: Most fertility clinics and hormone therapy providers have after-hours contact numbers. Don’t hesitate to use them if you’re concerned. They’d rather address your concerns early than deal with complications later.