What is it?
TSS is uncommon, but it is a serious illness, one that can even cause death. It is caused by a toxin that is produced by a kind of bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) that is found in the nose of about one third of the population. These bacteria can also be found on the skin, and occasionally in the vagina, without causing harm.
Who is at risk?
Both females and males can get TSS, at any age. It is most common in young women who use tampons during their period.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms can come on quickly and are like the flu. They include:
- Feeling very sick
- Muscular pains
- Headache
- Sudden high fever and chills (39degrees or higher)
- Diarrhoea and/or vomiting
- Weakness, confusion, dizziness, or fainting
- A rash that looks like a bad sunburn
It’s important to know that not all TSS cases are the same, and not all the symptoms will appear all the time. If you have any of the symptoms above during or right after your period, take out your tampon and go to see your doctor right away, be sure to tell them that you’ve been using tampons.
If you’ve ever had TSS don’t use tampons until you’ve talked to your doctor about it as you may not have developed a resistance to the toxin and might get TSS again.
How does TSS happen?
If the toxin is produced in the vagina or in a sore, and then absorbed into the bloodstream, someone without resistance can become sick. Most people will develop a resistance to the toxin (which is why it’s so uncommon) and in these people there will be no harmful effect.
The symptoms of TSS can come on quickly so early awareness and getting treatment right away can help to prevent serious illness.
Do tampons cause TSS?
In short, no, they don’t. Tampons don’t carry the bacteria that cause TSS. Tampon use has previously been associated with an elevated risk of TSS. It can happen when using tampons of any absorbency, but the risk goes up when you use tampons of higher absorbency.
It’s important to remember that tampons are not sterile, just like your hands, or your vagina. While tampons contain very small amounts of bacteria that are normally present in the air, they haven’t been found to carry the bacteria that cause TSS.
Safety tips for tampon use:
- Use the lowest absorbency necessary for your current flow
- Use just one tampon at a time
- Wash hands before and after unwrapping and inserting a tampon
- Use the tampon right after you unwrap it. Don’t put it down on a surface, or handle it more than necessary
- Never force a tampon in
- Be sure to change your tampon regularly (about every 4 hours, unless your flow is heavy) and never leave one in for more than 8 hours
- Don’t forget to take out the last tampon when your period is over
- Do not use tampons when you don’t have your period
- Check with your doctor if it’s ok to use a tampon when you’ve given birth recently, had a caesarean section, a miscarriage, an abortion, or any operation on your reproductive system
To find out more visit www.toxicshock.org.au
The advice provided in this material is general in nature and is not intended as medical advice. If you need medical advice, please consult your health care professional.
