Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is a serious, possibly life-threatening, complication that often occurs as a result of infection, most commonly caused by staph or strep bacteria. Even though this type of infection is very rare, it is most commonly associated with the use of feminine hygiene products in women.

Studies show that the occurrence among women has dropped significantly since certain tampons have been removed from the market and replaced with products such as the period panty option for women.

Although toxic shock syndrome is most often seen in women, the infection can affect both men and women of all ages, since the syndrome itself derives from certain strains of bacteria. Toxic shock syndrome, once infected, can set in at an alarming rate.

Symptoms that are most commonly seen with this condition are confusion, severe fever, diarrhea, vomiting, rashes that look like sunburn, headaches, muscle aches, abdominal pain, dizziness and many more.

This infection, when left untreated, leads to severe complications such as kidney failure, liver failure, heart failure, shock, and death. This is a serious infection that is not to be taken lightly and immediate medical attention is required if these symptoms occur.

In most cases, hospitalization is required for the patient. The doctor and medical staff will locate the source of infection and monitor the patient. Doctors will remove any and all contraceptive or feminine hygiene product that seems to be the cause of the infection. Antibiotics will be administered intravenously, along with oral antibiotics for many weeks upon leaving the hospital.

So, how do you best avoid TSS?

1. Change your menstrual products frequently. Ensure that you are more conservative with the time limits placed on sanitary product absorption and use.

2. Use the correct type of tampon for your flow, and size. As your flow decreases, use a lesser absorbent pad or tampon. In fact, using Apele period panties is ideal as they will handle any level of flow.

3. Use contraceptive sponge and diaphragm birth control methods properly and change them frequently. If you have questions, ask your primary OB or whomever prescribed such.

4. Wash your hands often and for the recommended 20 seconds. A good rule-of-thumb is to sing “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” to yourself twice at the regular cadence, for the entire duration of time you are soaping up.

5. Consider other menstrual products that are not associated with risk of TSS, like period panties. Which can be washed easily and contain anti-microbial properties to assist in the health and sanitation efforts! Have any other suggestions? Feel free to comment below!