What is Toxic Shock Syndrome?

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is a rare condition caused by a bacterial infection entering the bloodstream. This is dangerous as the bloodstream circulates the entire body causing the toxins from the infection to be spread across to different organs and affect limbs, sometimes resulted in amputation.

TSS is often associated with tampons as prolonged tampon use is a common risk factor. However, this syndrome is very rare and there are many easy ways to avoid it by safely using tampons or other vaginal products.

How can tampons cause TSS?

A tampon is a foreign object being placed inside the body, so its important that its clean. If a tampon is left in the vagina and not changed regularly it can collect bacteria which can travel into the uterus and cause an infection. This can also happen when using inserted contraceptives (birth control) such has a diaphragm or sponge

click here to read more about contraceptives

Does this mean tampons are not safe?

No! TSS is often not explained properly and installs fear when it comes to using tampons (understandably, TSS is scary). However, like any products you use with your body as long as they are used properly and safely the risk of infection is very low. TSS was more common during the 1970s/80s when super absorbent tampons were used, causing people to leave them in for longer. Now we know more about tampons (and feminine hygiene) so we can navigate how to safely use them. Its important to emphasise that TSS is extremely rare now but it is still very dangerous if contracted so it's vital to take these easy steps to avoid it.

So yes, tampons are safe to use when used properly.

How can I avoid getting TSS from tampons?

Like any method of avoiding infection the best way is to make sure anything going in your body is as clean as possible.

Some tips:

• change your tampon every 4-6 hours!
• wash your hands before inserting your tampon
• change your tampon each time you pee or poop to avoid bacteria travelling up the tampon string
• change your tampon after being in bodies of water eg swimming pools or lakes
• avoid staying in wet underwear or swimwear for long periods of time (this also helps prevent UTIs - read more on UTIs here)

Final notes

Tampons are safe to use when used properly and hygienically. We always recommend using organic eco friendly tampons if it's an option for you, especially if you are sensitive to irritation as some tampon brands have more chemicals than others.

Finally, TSS can be caused from other factors too that can lead to infections entering the blood stream so if you have symptoms but don't use tampons it's still important to see a doctor incase treatment is needed.

Medical information from John Hopkins Medicine