Why Were Kotex Tampons Recalled?

Kotex tampons were recently subject to a voluntary manufacturer recall after reports of serious health problems associated with the product have surfaced in the U.S. and Canada.

These problems are due to the product disintegrating as it is removed. Women who have been affected by this product are understandably concerned. What follows are some of the more frequently-asked questions about the Kotex tampons recall and what they should do should they suffer an injury as a result of using the product.

What is the Exact Problem With Kotex Tampons?

The manufacturer reports having received complaints of the tampon unraveling when it is removed. As a result, pieces of the tampon may be left inside. In a number of cases, users have had to seek the attention of healthcare professionals in order to remove these pieces.

What Specific Products Were Recalled?

The recall affects U by Kotex Sleek Tampons, Regular Absorbency products manufactured and distributed between October 2016 and October 2018. These products were distributed and sold in the U.S. and Canada. This is the only product that has been subject to the recall so far. U by Kotex Sleek Super and Super Plus Tampons have not been affected.

What are the Health Risks?

According to some reports, users who have had Kotex tampons disintegrate upon removal have experienced the following symptoms and/or health effects:

• vaginal itching, swelling, and other irritation
• hot flashes
• abdominal pain
• nausea
• urogenital infections (bacterial and yeast)

In a few cases, women have developed a staph infection known as toxic shock syndrome. This is characterized by sudden high fever, a serious drop in blood pressure, vomiting and diarrhea, muscular soreness, skin rash, and headaches. In extreme cases, there can be mental confusion and seizures. If you have experienced any of these symptoms, it is important to seek emergency treatment immediately, as toxic shock syndrome can be fatal.

What is Being Done About the Problem?

Manufacturer Kimberly-Clark is urging consumers who have these Kotex tampons to throw them away immediately. Retail stores have been alerted and instructed to remove all packages of the affected products from their shelves and post a notification alerting customers.

How Do I Know if I Have These Tampons?

Kimberly-Clark
has posted a full list affected lot numbers on its product website.

Were Any Packages Sold Outside the U.S. or Canada?

As far as is known, the recall is restricted to Canada and the U.S. and its territories. If you are in doubt, check the product website or contact that company’s Consumer Service line at 1-888-255-3499. There is no need to return the product.

Is Anything Being Done to Prevent This From Happening Again?

Kimberly-Clark has issued a statement informing consumers that they are “putting systems in place to prevent the occurrence of similar issues in the future.”

Join a Free U by Kotex Sleek Tampons Class Action Lawsuit Investigation

If you purchased U by Kotex Sleek Tampons, Regular Absorbency between October 2016 and October 2018 and the tampons unraveled upon removal or left pieces in your body, you may qualify to join this investigation.

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