Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) and Its Association With Tampons

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is a rare medical condition that has seen a rise in the past few years among women. TSS is caused by an infection because of a certain type of bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes (source). The bacteria releases a toxin that acts like a poison to the body as it enters the bloodstream which affects the entire body.

Even though sanitary product companies like Always, Tampax, etc. have been emphasising on the fact that TSS is not caused by the use of tampons, research shows otherwise.

Women who use tampons during their periods are most likely to get TSS. One of the main reasons for this is that the bacteria behind TSS can easily grow in the vagina in the presence of a tampon - especially a blood-soaked one that has not been changed for hours.

Toxic Shock Syndrome and Association with Tampon Use

In the 1980s CDC in the US claimed that tampons from Procter & Gamble are the most contributing factor to the onset of TSS. It emphasized on superabsorbent tampons that contain chemicals in them.

TSS is not only caused by the use of tampons. You can get TSS while using other products like menstrual cups, sanitary pads, etc. However, the ratio of women using tampons affected by TSS is higher than any other product.

Tampons have been hailed as a convenient solution for periods, as they offer discretion and freedom as compared to cloth and pads. However, despite their widespread use, there are significant hygienic concerns.

Most tampons are made from cotton and rayon, which are highly absorbent, but they are also prone to harboring bacteria. Unlike pads that are placed outside your body, tampons are inserted into the vagina, thus creating a moist environment that is ideal for bacterial growth. This can increase your risk of getting TSS.

Aside from the material used, tampons undergo a bleaching process to whiten them. It leaves traces of harmful chemicals like dioxins, which are linked to reproductive issues.

Furthermore, forgetting to change a tampon regularly can also increase the likelihood of TSS as it increases the risk of bacterial growth and infection.

Reducing the Risk of TSS

TSS is a rare condition, but the risks are always there especially if you use tampons during periods. Here are some suggestions by professionals to reduce the risk:

• Change tampons regularly
• Don't use super-absorbent tampons
• Unwrap tampons only when you are going to use them. Don't keep it unwrapped for too long.
• Don't touch the tampon too much to avoid contamination.
• Wash your hands before inserting tampons.
• For overnight, consider using pads/ sanitary napkins.

Make sure not to wear tampons when you don't have periods or during the last days when the flow is light. Instead, you can switch to pads or panty liners during light flow days. When the blood flow is light, tampons can stick to the vaginal walls, causing light abrasions when you remove them.

If you think you have toxic shock syndrome or irritation, stop using tampons immediately, and seek professional help. Don't let it sit untreated for long as it will give bacteria more time to grow.

While tampons offer convenience during periods, they pose significant hygiene concerns that should not be ignored. The use of tampons raises important questions regarding TSS.

Reusable cloth pads have gained popularity among women as a more hygienic option. These are made from organic materials that absorb blood and avoid bacterial growth and infection. Moreover, they remain outside your body and there is no insertion required. Make sure to explore alternative options, and make informed decisions prioritizing health.