What is TSS?
TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome), is a dangerous infection caused by a bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus.
TSS occurs most frequently in women who wear tampons. Tampons, if left inside the vagina for more than 8 hours, creates an environment perfect for the bacteria to breed and grow.
Symptoms of TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome)
You know that you have fallen prey to the infection if you have:
- A sudden high fever (temperature at least 102° Fahrenheit [38.8° Celsius])
- A sunburn-like rash
- Dizziness, fainting, or light headedness ( due to drop in blood pressure)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Sore throat
- Muscle ache
- Decreased urination
How to avoid TSS
To avoid developing TSS, one needs to follow some precautionary measures when using tampons.
Hygiene:
- A hygienic environment prevents bacterial growth and infections. Wash your hands properly before inserting a tampon inside your vagina.
- Change your tampons every 4-6 hours or even more often to avoid the risk.
- Dispose the used tampon by wrapping it properly in a news paper and throw it away in the dust-bin. Make sure the dust-bin is not inside your room.
Tampon absorbency:
- Choice of correct tampon absorbency is very essential. TSS Occurs more frequently when super absorbent tampons are used. It is advised to use smaller sized tampons when your flow is lighter. Use the super absorbent ones only when the flow is too heavy.
Alternate tampons with sanitary pads:
- Try not to use tampon throughout your period. Use tampons when you have heavy flow and switch to the pads when your flow is less.
- It is also recommended to use pads at night. The reason is simple, at night you may oversleep, with the result you will not be able to change the tampon after 8 hours and may end up wearing the same tampon for more than 10 hours.
Remember:
- Remove the tampon immediately if you feel dizzy or unwell. It may be the initial symptom of TSS.
- If you have had TSS earlier, don’t use a tampon at all. Switch over to sanitary pads.
- Use tampons only to absorb the menstrual flow. Tampons should not be used to absorb other vaginal discharge.