Caring for Yourself: The Truth About Tampons and Toxic Shock Syndrome

Menstruation can become a hurdle for any woman, final exams start tomorrow but periods knock at your door, or beach vacation with friends but scared of periods crashing it. At least once we all have faced a situation where sanitary napkins were not very efficient during those days but what if I tell you that your fear of leakage can be minimized to a great extent and you would worry less if you make one small change? Indeed you must be overjoyed, so let's explore a little about this change- tampons.

What even are Tampons?

Tampons are menstrual products made up of cotton, rayon, or a blend of both that are inserted in your vagina during menstruation. They are designed in cylindrical shapes and are meant to provide comfortable, convenient, and leakproof protection during periods. They often come up with applicators made of plastic or cardboard but sometimes sold without them as well.

How do they work?

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Menstrual blood is absorbed by the absorbent core of a tampon, generally made of cotton or a cotton-rayon blend. A tampon once inserted into the vagina, starts to expand slightly to become big enough to absorb menstrual blood and vaginal fluids. A string is attached to one end of a tampon allowing easy removal when needed. Tampons are placed inside, thus they are discreet and can be used for any sports activity like swimming or exercising. If you’re worried that it might get lost inside your body or feel like an external object, then your worries can fly away cause once properly inserted, you would not feel a thing and your vagina is a dead end, so there's no magic connecting canal.

The only cause of shock: Toxic Shock Syndrome

Toxic Shock Syndrome usually known as TSS is a not-so-common yet life-threatening side effect that accompanies tampons. Anna Norquist, a 30-year-old healthy gymnast from Indianapolis had to spend several weeks in the Critical care unit because of contracting severe Toxic Shock Syndrome. This does not mean, you have to throw away the idea of using Tampons.  Due to prolonged use, the tampon becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and the vagina becomes dry. The toxins released from these bacteria enter your bloodstream and affect crucial organs like the heart, liver, and kidney. Some common symptoms include sudden high fever or chills, nausea, dizziness, or low blood pressure.

According to Dr. Shailaja N, an obstetrician and gynecologist based in Bangalore, “The incident of TSS is about one in a lakh women using the tampons.” Thus it should not be a cause of concern, some basic precautions can keep TSS far away.

• Change tampons every 4-6hrs.
• Never forget to remove your tampon after your periods end.
• Ensure that your hands are clean before inserting and after removing tampons. 
• Avoid using tampons if you have a cut or splinter around your vaginal area. 

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The master weapon against TSS is in your hands--diagnosis. Toxic Shock Syndrome can be easily treated if diagnosed early. The later the diagnosis takes, the more severe it becomes. So consult a medical expert immediately if you feel the slightest chance of contracting Toxic Shock Syndrome. Contact Gytree healthcare professionals for expert advice.

Tampons can be your period besties if keep a few things on track to avoid Toxic Shock Syndrome. As we proceed in time, products to help women during menstruation are increasing. So always keep an eye out for the best new thing otherwise Gytree is always there to keep your health news updated. 

We are an information-gathering blog. For all medical interventions, please consult a registered medical practitioner.