Sexual Health Reproductive Health Issues Vaginal Health How to Reduce Your Risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome By Tracee Cornforth linkedin Tracee Cornforth is a freelance writer who covers menstruation, menstrual disorders, and other women's health issues. Learn about our editorial process Tracee Cornforth Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Brian Levine, MD on November 01, 2019 linkedin Brian Levine, MD, MS, FACOG, is board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology, as well as in reproductive endocrinology and infertility. Learn about our Medical Review Board Brian Levine, MD on November 01, 2019 Print Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare, potentially life-threatening condition the develops in women when staphylococci bacteria in the vagina enter the bloodstream. Although scientists have recognized a connection between tampons and instances of TSS, the exact connection remains unclear. Image Source / Getty Images Toxic Shock Syndrome and Tampons First, the good news: You don't have to quit using tampons in order to avoid toxic shock syndrome. Most cases of tampon-related TSS are a result of using tampon products the offer the highest absorbency and/or leaving them in for too long. When it comes to TSS, most medical professionals agree that it’s not the tampons that are the problem, necessarily, but improper tampon use. That said, manufacturers of tampons sold in the United States no longer use the materials or designs that were initially associated with early cases of TSS. Perhaps more importantly, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) now also requires manufacturers to use standard measurements and labeling for absorbency and to print guidelines on the boxes to educate women about proper use. Still, when it comes to the risk of a serious condition, it doesn't hurt to play it safe. Tips for Reducing Your Risk of TSS To avoid toxic shock syndrome, follow these eight safety tips: Always use the lowest possible absorbency tampon for your flow. This might mean using different absorbency levels at different points in your period. All tampon products in the U.S. use the standard Light, Regular, Super, and Super Plus labeling, according to FDA guidelines for tampon absorbency.Change tampons at least every four to eight hours, and avoid wearing one to bed unless you plan on waking during the night to change it. When your flow is light, use sanitary napkins or mini pads.Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before and after inserting tampons. Staphylococci bacteria are often found on the hands.If vaginal dryness is an issue, use a lubricant when inserting a tampon to avoid irritating the vaginal lining.Do not use tampons for vaginal discharge, or any other reason, between menstrual cycles.Do not use tampons if you have a skin infection near your genitals.Keep in mind that tampon misuse isn't the only way you can get toxic shock syndrome. Although the condition is most commonly linked to tampon use in menstruating women, it can affect people of all ages, including men and children. Infection usually occurs when bacteria enters your body through an opening in your skin. For instance, bacteria can enter through a cut, sore, or other open wounds.If you experience any signs of TSS—a sudden, high fever; vomiting or diarrhea; a sunburn-like rash on the palms of your hands and soles of your feet; redness of your eyes, mouth, and throat; or a drop in blood pressure—call your physician immediately. Treatment If you develop TSS, you'll likely be hospitalized and treated with antibiotics and fluids to treat dehydration. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may ask for blood and urine samples to test for the presence of a staph or strep infection. Since TSS can affect multiple organs, your doctor may also order other tests like a CT scan, lumbar puncture, or chest X-ray. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. Sign Up You're in! Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. There was an error. Please try again. What are your concerns? Other Inaccurate Hard to Understand Submit Article Sources Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. U.S. Food & Drug Administration. The Facts on Tampons—and How to Use Them Safely. Updated September 12, 2018. Merck Manual Professional Version. Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). Updated June 2019.