Tampons & Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)

Last Updated: Oct. 1, 2003

TSS is a rare but potentially deadly disease. Women under 30, especially teenagers, are at a higher risk for TSS. Using any kind of tampon – cotton or rayon of any absorbency – puts a woman at greater risk for TSS than using menstrual pads. The risk of TSS can be lessened or avoided by not using tampons, or by alternating between tampons and pads during your period.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends the following tips to help avoid tampon problems:

• Follow package directions for insertion.
• Choose the lowest absorbency for your flow.
• Change your tampon at least every 4 to 8 hours.
• Consider alternating pads with tampons.
• Know the warning signs of toxic shock syndrome (see below).
• Don’t use tampons between periods.

If you experience any of the following symptoms while you are menstruating and using tampons, you should contact your health care provider immediately:

• High fever that appears suddenly
• Muscle aches
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness and/or fainting
• Sunburn-like rash
• Sore throat
• Bloodshot eyes

Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women’s Health

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