Toxic Shock Syndrome is one of the first scary associations people make with tampons. But there is no reason to panic. It is not only caused due to tampons neither does it solely affect menstruators but is a condition that might affect anyone. A large number of such cases are non-menstrual, which are due to skin injuries, surgical incisions, nasal packings, burns.
Yes, it is fatal. It is also extremely rare and occurs due to bacterial infection due to the overgrowth of bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes that enter the bloodstream and produce toxins. So, it will only develop if you already have the bacteria.
The staph and strep bacteria often harmlessly live on the skin or mucous membranes. It is only under specific conditions that make them interact with something leading to their rapid growth and toxin production. Children and young adults are more susceptible to it.
It was first identified in 1978 and peaked in the early 1980s when TSS cases caused by superabsorbent tampons were reported in the United States. The brand Rely was taken off the market. Doctors suggest changing tampons every 8 hours, cleaning menstrual cups, and washing your hands properly to avoid TSS. Since then, such an outbreak of TSS hasn’t been seen.
These are part of a regular hygienic routine one should practice to prevent any infection, not just TSS. Super absorbent tampons can trap the staph in the vagina, and it can enter the uterus through the cervix and may grow on tampons if they are not changed at proper intervals.
Symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome
- Sudden high fever, headache
- Low blood pressure
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Rashes (resembling a bad sunburn or red dots)
- Muscle pain
- Fainting/dizziness/seizures
- Redness of eye, mouth, and throat
- Skin peeling off soles or palms
While it is rare, it is crucial to keep in mind when it comes to tampon testing so that they are well-tested and avoid harmful synthetic absorbents. The exact relation of TSS to menstruation and tampons is not precisely known. Still, one of the reasons could be that tampons alter the natural body environment by introducing oxygen in the vagina. It aids the excess growth of bacteria leading to TSS. This is why healthcare professionals recommend light-absorbency tampons, and it is advised to replace a tampon every 4-8 hours. Unlike tampons, menstrual cups are not known to cause TSS.
There’s No Need To Be Afraid!
Toxic Shock Syndrome is rare and as we now know, not just caused by tampons. A cursory google search for TSS cases in India turns up a few results, nothing of note. Make informed, healthy, and comfortable choices regarding menstrual health products and use them properly.
Tampons and other menstrual products won’t cause TSS just because of insertion, but because of untimely, improper removal or unhygienic usage of the same. That applies to all practices related to our bodies. Following general hygiene practises is a must for any device being inserted into your body, be it menstrual products, contraceptive devices like IUD or diaphragms because preventions of infections are best done by maintaining hygiene:
- Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and hot water before device or finger insertion.
- Be sure to change tampons every 4-8 hours. Use low-absorbent, light tampons.
- Do not use tampons on days when you experience light flow.
- Change cups and contraceptive devices at the correct time interval.
- Consult your doctor for recommending menstrual products and contraceptives that are best suited for your body.
- Keep wounds and surgical cuts clean, change dressings properly.
Currently, we are in an unprecedented situation where bodily hygiene has become paramount. If certain precautions become daily habits, it will only add to the longevity of our lifestyle.
The author is a part of the current batch of the #PeriodParGyan Writer’s Training Program