I have done the same thing. Everything was ok for me. I had bad odor for a day or 2. I would go to dr to be sure. Toxic shock syndrome happens rarely in cases like this. Nothing to be embarassed about. It happens. :)
Oh dear, how scary. There is no reason to feel embarrassed but this can be dangerous.Leaving a tampon in for this long could introduce Staphylococcus aureus bacteria into your vagina. (the toxins that cause TSS) I am a LPN (practical nurse) if you experience any other the following, I would advise you go to the emergency room or urgency care facility
If you develop a rash, headache, dizziness, fever, diarrhea, nausea, low blood pressure..
IF you have any of these symptoms proceed to the ER now, you will need IV fluids to stabilize your BP and IV antibiotics to fight the Staph bacteria.
Also, if you have developed a rash and notice that the skin on the palms of your hands are peeling.. this is also a telltale sign of TSS.
Good luck hun,
~VQ
Don't be scared out of your mind. Things willl be ok. I've been there. Just see Dr and tell him of anything unusual. :)