We all have our preferences, and for some women they prefer to use tampons over pads.

While there is nothing wrong with using tampons, women who use tampons are at a greater risk of
developing Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).

Our Today spoke with pharmacist Sasha-Kay Daley who explained that Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is a rare and life-threatening condition caused by the exotoxins from Staphylococcus aureus (staph) or Streptococcus pyogenes.

“It therefore is caused by certain strains of bacteria that produce toxins (poisons). It can result in the failure of vital organs, such as the liver, lungs or heart and loss of limbs,” Daley further noted. 

Over the years, the illness has been linked to tampon use and so women who use tampons are at risk of developing TSS.

One of the most notable stories about TSS is that of model-turned-activist Lauren Wasser.

In 2012, Wasser’s life transformed completely after she developed TSS while on her period.

As a result of the illness, Wasser suffered organ failure, unstable blood pressure, a heart attack, and an extremely high fever after using a tampon. She later lost both her legs to TSS.

Experts are not sure why tampon use sometimes leads to the condition, but some believe that a tampon left in place for a long period of time attracts bacteria. Another possibility is that tampon fibres scratch the vagina, creating an opening for bacteria to enter your bloodstream.

TSS and risks of tampon use

Staphylococcus aureus is a common type of bacterium that lives on the skin and inside the nose.

“The staphylococcus bacteria is found on your skin and is in most harmless but if it should enter your bloodstream that’s when it becomes dangerous because it can lead to TSS,” Daley emphasised.

For TSS to occur, these particular types of bacteria must first over-grow and make large amounts of the TSS toxin, which then enters the bloodstream.

Tampons can increase the risk of TSS in two ways:

• Tampons (especially super-absorbent varieties) that are left in the vagina for a long time may encourage the bacteria to grow.
• Tampons can stick to the vaginal walls, especially when blood flow is light, causing tiny abrasions when they are removed.

Obviously, not everyone who forgets to change a tampon or who leaves one in overnight will get toxic shock syndrome. Regrettably, there is no way one can tell if they are one of those people who is at a lower risk of developing TSS. It is therefore better to always play it safe when it comes on to tampon use.

When someone has TSS syndrome, their body is fighting off infection from all angles.

“Symptoms generally include high fever, vomiting or diarrhea, sever muscle aches, feeling extremely weak or dizzy and a sunburn-like rash, usually occurring together and gradually gets worse over time,” Daley pointed out.

These symptoms most likely indicate the common cold or gastroenteritis.

“There are times when TSS results in death because the symptoms look like those of other diseases,” Daley noted.

However, if you are using tampons and you develop a high fever, rash or diarrhea, then you should remove the tampon and seek medical attention to rule out TSS.

Reducing the risk of toxic shock syndrome

Daley encourage women to limit one tampon use to 4-6 hours, not tampons overnight, avoid super absorbent varieties and ensure that they carefully read and follow the instructions for insertion by the manufacturer of the tampon being used.