Tampons recalled for "quality-related defect" after reports of infections

NEENAH, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Some U by Kotex tampons are being recalled for a " quality-related defect" after reports that the products can come apart upon removal and in some cases cause users to seek medical attention to remove pieces left in the body. 

Kimberly-Clark announced that the recall is limited to specific lots of U by Kotex® Sleek® Tampons, Regular Absorbency, manufactured between October 7, 2016 and October 16, 2018 and distributed between October 17, 2016 and October 23, 2018.

Consumers can identify this product by looking for specific lot numbers found on the bottom of the package. A full list of recalled lot numbers is available on the U by Kotex® website. Retailers have been alerted to remove the recalled lot numbers from shelves and post a notification in their stores.

No other U by Kotex-branded products are subject to the recall.

Kimberly-Clark says in addition to the reports of unraveling, there were a small number of reports of infections, vaginal irritation, localized vaginal injury, and other symptoms.

Anyone who has the recalled products should stop using the tampons immediately and promptly contact Kimberly-Clark's Consumer Service team at 1-888-255-3499 between 7:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday, for information regarding the recall.

Consumers who experience vaginal injury (pain, bleeding, or discomfort), vaginal irritation (itching or swelling), urogenital infections (bladder and/or vaginal bacterial and/or yeast infections), or other symptoms such as hot flashes, abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting following use of the impacted product should seek immediate medical attention.

U.S. health care professionals and consumers may report adverse reactions or quality problems they may experience using these devices to MedWatch: The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program either online, by regular mail, or by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178.



Share this article: