The Lowdown on Toxic Shock Syndrome ...

Neecey Jul 20, 2015

Did you see the news about the model, Lauren Wasser, who lost her leg due to Toxic Shock Syndrome? (people.com) It’s horrifying to think that TSS, which can result from you simply forgetting to remove a tampon, could produce such devastating effects. Super scary, huh? As if Mother Nature’s gift isn’t enough of a curse every month, we get this little horror to go along with mood swings, cramps and icky mess. But what should you know about it?

1. What is Toxic Shock Syndrome?

TSS is a bacterial infection. The bacterium in question is an unfriendly little monster called Staphylococcus aureus. Although commonly associated with tampons that haven’t been removed, TSS can arise through other causes. In every case, a person must already have Staphylococcus aureus present in their body or introduce it with the tampon in order to get toxic shock, which enables me to assure you that the chances of you getting TSS are extremely low.

2. What Are the Symptoms of TSS?

Unfortunately, some of the symptoms are so generic and a lot could lead you to thinking you have the flu. They do come on quite suddenly, though. These are the signs to watch for: sudden fever, low blood pressure, headache, aching muscles, disorientation and confusion, diarrhea, nausea/vomiting, rash, redness in the eyes, mouth, and throat and seizures.

Frequently asked questions

3. It’s Super Rare

One of the key facts about TSS is that it is incredibly rare. It seems as though every girl knows a girl who knows somebody that has had it, but this is totally untrue. The facts are that only a couple of hundred people get Toxic Shock Syndrome in the USA each year, so given the population this is a really, REALLY low percentage. Much of the talk surrounding it is purely rumour and scare tactics.

4. Be Careful when Sleeping with a Tampon in

Though many of the claims about keeping a tampon in for too long are over exaggerated, it is true that you need to be careful when sleeping with one in overnight. Problems can begin to arise from keeping the falling uterus lining inside your body for too long. To alleviate any possible issues, either sleep with a maxi pad instead or set an alarm for halfway through the night so that you can go and change.

What you choose to wear while working out can have a significant impact on your comfort and performance. One essential item is the sports bra. Lack of proper support can lead to discomfort and muscle tissue damage. Choosing a good sports bra can help prevent these problems and ensure a great workout!

5. Consider Your Tampon Size

Research has shown that if you regularly use a tampon that has a bigger absorbency level than your period needs then you are more likely to be at rick of catching TSS. The reason for this is that if you are inserting a ‘super plus,’ you are therefore able to go longer without switching tampons and run the risk of infection through prolonged use of a single tampon.

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6. Try Organic Tampons

Many experts believe that the specific materials that make up your tampon might be a contributing factor to your level of risk of TSS. For example, it is thought that tampons made from polyester foam and rayon create an environment in which bacteria love to thrive. If this is something you would like to avoid, then consider switching to one of the organic tampon brands that are available on the market; they are much more environmentally and naturally geared.

7. Tampons Go out of Date

It might not be something that you have ever thought about, but tampons do actually go out of date. The expiration, or use by, date is on the bottom of every box, and even though they may look absolutely fine, this is something that should be taken very seriously. After all, you wouldn’t drink milk that had gone off, so why would you put something into you body that has seemingly expired?

The over-riding message to remember - TSS is rare. However, if you don’t feel right, SAY SOMETHING. It is so important that you listen to your body and seek help or advice when it feels appropriate. The classic symptoms of TSS are pretty regular health occurrences. However, if these symptoms occur during your period, it might be worth giving them special attention.

Feedback Junction

Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge

I will seriously never use tampon cuz of tss and they sound so uncomfortable. Like who wants to stuck something up their vagina

Anyone heard of a menstrual cup?!? Great alternative!! Look it up!

Or stay away from tampons full stop...

Why do tampons get expired?

Pads are good. You can just keep away from the tampons. I've never used one and never will

When I'm out & have things to do I use tampons. I use pads mostly when I'm at home or once my flow is lighter. Pads can be really messy and I wouldn't sleep in a tampon. But I enjoyed this article

I have a heavy period so I feel more comfortable using tampons, but when the flow is less after a couple of days I usually switch to pads

I empty the box of tampons into a wicker basket with thin panty liners that I keep in the bathroom closet. I never even thought about looking at the expiration date! Thanks, I'll be more aware next time.

My aunts were talking about this this morning and I have been at the beach so I kind of have to use tampons I'm glad I got to know about it cause I was freaking out

Using a pad is like sitting in a puddle of blood and they are completely unreliable.

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