Abstract: A device configured to form a sleeve having a proximal end, a distal end and an elongate body portion having an axial lumen therebetween. The body portion is dimensioned to accommodate a length of hose within its axial lumen. The proximal end of the device has a wrench portion adapted to matingly engage at least a portion of the outer surface of a female threaded coupling fixture mounted on a terminal end of the hose. The distal end of the device may or may not be flared outwardly to prevent the hose from kinking when the female coupling fixture mounted on the hose is attached to a supply source such as a water tap. The body portion and distal end of the device is adapted to rotate freely about a length of hose housed therewithin. In one embodiment, the proximal end of the device has a stop operable for preventing the device from sliding away from the female coupling fixture mounted on the hose.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved tampon for preventing conduction of menstrual fluids from the vagina. The tampon comprises an absorbable pledget of the type well known in the art capable of absorbing menstrual discharge and a withdrawal string non-releasably attached to the pledget. The withdrawal string is a non-absorbing fiber that is non-wicking for aqueous liquids. The withdrawal string prevents the inadvertent wicking or conduction of exogenous fluids such as sea water into the vagina or of menstrual fluid from the vagina into absorbable undergarments.