Women who have their period (are menstruating) are most likely to get TSS, as it is thought to be associated with tampon use. Choose one that best fits your lifestyle, well, it’s a decision we make at an individual level. Toxic shock syndrome is caused by two types of bacteria : Staphylococcus aureus (often called staph) Streptococcus pyogenes (often called strep) Most cases are related to staph bacteria. The Beautyholic is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Thankfully, pads don’t cause toxic shock syndrome. TSS doesn’t spread from person to person. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. First of all, it’s important to note that the condition isn’t just a female problem; men also do suffer from it. However, they can still put you at risk for other infections if not changed at a reasonable time. Regardless of how prepared we are, experiencing your periods for the first time can be a bit scary. Rashes (red dots) that appear like sunburn on the skin and in any region of the body including soles of the feet or palms of the hand. Call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency department right away if you think you have TSS. BETTER COVERAGE. Share your thoughts with top-mom.com in the comments. Also get medical help if you develop signs of an infection, such as increased pain, swelling and redness. Thankfully, pads don’t cause toxic shock syndrome. Although signs of toxic shock syndrome tampons take 2 days to start presenting themselves, should you wear it for more than 8 hours, you are at risk, so if you are looking for the answer to “is it safe to wear a tampon overnight” – our answer is absolutely no. Avoid using superabsorbent sanitary towels, especially when you don’t have a heavy flow. Whenever using female barrier contraception, follow the instructions on the pack. What you use is a personal choice, but the risk of getting Toxic Shock Syndrome is the same for organic or non-organic tampons and it’s also the same for cotton, rayon, or a blend of the two. I like hearing people's life stories. Well, are tampons bad for you? Toxic shock syndrome is caused by an overgrowth of (usually) staph bacteria in/near wounds often when the area is saturated with blood for an extended time. You should change tampons every four to eight hours, and pads should be changed every three to four hours. Caused by Staphylococcus Aureus COMFORTABLE. Keep wounds, burns or other surgical incisions clean. The question of how long can you wear one depends on the flow. 20 It’s a rare but life-threatening complication of certain types of bacterial infections. Then, follow instructions to the latter. Only a blood or urine test by the doctor will confirm or allay your fears. Always Maxi, Size 4, Overnight Pads With Flexi-Wings are comfortable and have a flexible design for the best nighttime protection. Toxic shock syndrome, also known as TSS syndrome, is a rare condition that occurs as a result of poisoning and can lead to death. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Anyone can get TSS regardless of age or their reproductive equipment. But if it is diagnosed and treated early, most people will make a full recovery which is usually within a couple of days to a week. Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare but life-threatening condition caused by bacteria getting into the body and releasing harmful toxins. TSS is a special form of septic shock caused by the toxins of the Staphylococcus and Streptococcus bacteria. However, issue of “can pads cause TSS?” will still be addressed. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. There are several toxic shock syndrome symptoms that one can look out for. When using a tampon at night, insert a new tampon before going to bed and change it in the morning. Using tampons– Only if you leave the tampon for a longer period than recommended or you use “super-absorbent” tampons. I'm a mindset coach and I love writing about beauty, lifestyle & tit-bits of fashion. There’s a lot we have to learn before we can comfortably start using pads, tampons, or menstrual cups. However, an association with use of Impressa® Bladder Supports and TSS has not been established. Micro-tears in the vaginal wall from tampons allow bacteria to accumulate. It's caused by the release of toxins from an overgrowth of bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus, or staph, which is found in many women's bodies. Do you use vaginal contraceptives? The only difference in tampons that can increase the risk for TSS is the absorbency. This condition is often related to tampons or menstrual cups. Today, only tampons have been linked to TSS symptoms. Use pads especially when your flow is heavy. Staphylococcus bacterium accounts for 5 to 15% of deaths, while Streptococcus accounts for 30-70%. The Beautyholic is a blog about beauty, lifestyle and fashion. However, note that the mortality rate varies with bacteria strain. read more, 8 Since then, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) recorded approximately 5,296 cases up until 1996 in the US alone. Increased risk of TSS is associated with products worn in the vagina. We strive to share high-quality posts which are useful to our readers. Avoid using tampons or female barrier contraception if you’ve had TSS before. Often toxic shock syndrome results from toxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria, but the condition may also be caused by toxins produced by group A streptococcus (strep) bacteria.Toxic shock syndrome has been associated primarily with the use of superabsorbent tampons. In the early years like in 1980, of the 890 cases reported 812 were menstrual-related – that’s 91% of the incidents recorded. Having your menses, then you start experiencing a headache or nausea isn’t a reason to start freaking out. You should change tampons every four to eight hours, and pads should be changed every three to four hours. Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare and potentially life-threatening illness that is thought to be caused by infection with certain types of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. It’s worth noting that these bacteria already reside on the human skin, including mucous membranes and will only turn villains when certain conditions prevail. The Toxic Shock Syndrome bacteria that tampons are associated with is Staphylococcal (or Staph), as this can affect any woman. When discovered early getting treatment helps prevent fatalities. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. No, but that doesn’t make it superior to tampons. Therefore, can you get toxic shock syndrome from pads? However, it’s not standard as the different strains will affect you in a manner specific to them. There are other ways to get it, but tampons cause the majority of the cases. It can result in the failure of vital organs, such as the liver, lungs or heart. Understandably, you’re concerned for your wellbeing. Newer tampons, regulations, and awareness have helped rates decline in recent years. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. While this response (sometimes referred to as a cytokin… This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Any longer and you’re exposing yourself to the risk of toxic shock disease and other infections. Toxic shock syndrome is a rare but serious systematic illness caused by a bacterial infection. FLEXIBLE. We also feature products reviews which are 100% genuine. Using female contraceptives, such as a contraceptive diaphragm or contraceptive cap. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Toxic shock syndrome is a kind of blood poisoning that results in a person becoming extremely ill in a very short amount of time. When the first case of the disease was reported, it was established that it occurred as a result of bacterial poisoning. Yes rarely: In the 1980's toxic shock syndrome (tss) was associated with tampons in women who had a strain of toxin- producing staph that caused blood pressure to drop (shock), & complications including kidney failure; it was fatal in patients who were severly ill. Tss occurs rarely with infection with this staph on the skin or after surgery. The risk for developing toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is associated with the use of tampons and other period products that are inserted into the vagina, like menstrual cups and discs. Toxic Shock Syndrome is a rare multisystem disease with many widespread symptoms. If you experience any of the symptoms of TSS while using a tampon, remove the tampon and see your health care provider right away. You’ll be surprised to learn that not many girls or women are aware of the problem, that’s thanks to manufacturers who provide quality pads. The symptoms of TSS can start suddenly and get worse. Change tampons regularly – as often as described on the pack (mostly every four to eight hours), Never insert more than one tampon at a time (I’m not sure if anyone does it, if you do then you need to stop!). Wash your hands before and after inserting a tampon. Toxic shock syndrome was first identified in 1978 when a … read more, 17 Toxic shock syndrome can occur when women use tampons, especially "super-absorbent" ones. Menstruating women take 3 to 5 days for them to get sick. One infamous risk is Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), caused either by poisonous toxins from Staphylococcus aureus (staph) or group A … If you wait too long or tend to forget to you put yourself at risk for developing a UTI, vaginal infection or a rash. You can wear them anywhere between 4 and 8 hours. In 1988, that figure stood at 55%. A wound such as a cut, burn, boil, insect bite or a surgical wound. Cons The biggest downside to wearing tampons is the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TTS). These bacteria’staphylococcus aureus (staph) and group A streptococcus (strep)’are found in many women’s bodies, but in rare cases, the toxins can enter the bloodstream and cause TSS. Note: Mortality, like the symptoms, varies based on the strain of bacteria. TSS symptoms can worsen quickly and can be fatal if not treated. It's often associated with tampon use in young women, but it can affect anyone of any age – including men and children. Supportive treatment may be required including Immune globulin intravenous or fluid replacement. "TSS Is Caused By Tampons" TSS is caused by certain types of Staphylococcus bacteria, particularly … Alternate tampons with sanitary pads and don’t completely reply on tampon during your periods. Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a very rare but life-threatening complication caused when bacteria get into the body and releases harmful toxins. Don’t wear pads when you don’t have periods. However, our focus is on the condition and how it relates to the use of sanitary towels. Toxic shock syndrome affects menstruating women, especially those who use super-absorbent tampons. Staphylococcus bacterium accounts for 5 to 15% of deaths, while Streptococcus accounts for 30-70%. Toxic Shock syndrome is a rare condition caused by bacterial infection, that rapidly turns into sepsis and septic shock, a generalised infection that spreads to tissues and vital organs through the bloodstream. Toxic Shock Syndrome is a rare but critical medical disorder-induced by a bacterial infection. Luckily, that figure has reduced significantly. Among things that are crucial to learning is the issue of Toxic Shock Syndrome. Your email address will not be published. In fact, the first cases of the disease recorded were among a group of young children. The poisoning is as a result of toxins produced by certain types of bacteria. The poisoning is as a result of toxins produced by certain types of bacteria. All tampons on the U.S. market today are associated with an equally low risk of TSS. It is caused by a toxin that is produced and secreted by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. And today we’re going to find out if sanitary pads are the safest or Toxic Shock Syndrome can still sleek in! The symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome may include a sudden high fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abnormally low blood pressure (hypotension), and a characteristic skin rash that resemble a bad sunburn. They also need to be the correct size. Although, symptoms will guide you know that something is not right. I’m traditional comfortable to pads anyway! TSS requires medical intervention for one to be well, otherwise, the infection will keep getting worse. Toxic shock syndrome is rare. However, staying with one longer than 4 hours exposes you to the risk of Urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other vaginal infections which could be deadly if left untreated. Stay away from super-absorbent tampons! Every once in a while, we often hear stories about women who became ill or even died from toxic shock syndrome or TSS. Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that is caused by certain strains of bacteria that produce toxins (poisons). Yes, when we seek immediate medical attention. It’s a no, but it exposes you to other risks such as UTI’s when you don’t change them as required. The tell-tale symptoms include: In some cases, you may have a wound on your skin from where the bacteria get into the body. … Gynecological procedures such as childbirth. Toxic shock syndrome, also known as TSS syndrome, is a rare condition that occurs as a result of poisoning and can lead to death. The body responds with a sharp drop in blood pressure that deprives organs of oxygen and can lead to death. Almost no risk of toxic shock syndrome (TTS): There is almost no risk of developing TTS when using menstrual pads. Step up in size to Size 4 Overnight Maxi Pads and be leak-free. What Happens When You Don’t Change Your Pad? There are so many myths revolving around toxic shock syndrome on the Internet. Also, don’t wear one if you don’t have your menses. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. The tragic case of US model Lauren Wasser who has now lost both legs as a result of toxic shock syndrome … This video gives a good introduction to Toxic Shock Syndrome and provides practical advice on how to reduce the risk of suffering from TSS. How Do You Test for Toxic Shock Syndrome? Although the bacteria are naturally found within the human body, under certain conditions, the bacteria can multiply leading to toxic shock syndrome. Was it helpful? In the case of pads, you decide what works best for you, since there isn't the risk of toxic shock syndrome. The immune system mounts a major response to the toxins by releasing a cascade of immune cells called cytokines. That was in the late 70s, and it wasn’t until early 80s that it was found in women and attributed to the use of sanitary towels. Required fields are marked *. Includes: (1) 48-count package of Always Maxi Size 4 Overnight Pads with Flexi-Wings Wings, Unscented. Yes! Leaving a tampon in for a long period of time or using one with a higher-than-needed absorbency can put you at risk. With heavy flow, it will be filled faster. Toxic shock syndrome requires immediate emergency care in a hospital. 324 TSS is caused by the Staphylococcus aureus bacterium. Suggestions to help minimize risk include: Questions such as “can you get a toxic shock from a pad?” or “how to avoid TSS from tampons?” must be giving you some restlessness. Always use a tampon with the lowest absorbency. Cases of the disease have also been reported resulting from the following circumstances: All of the above increase risk of TSS syndrome. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. These facts about Toxic Shock Syndrome that you need to be aware of will be an excellent pointer for you: Once you’re infected, it will take approximately 2 days for the symptoms to present themselves. Toxic shock syndrome from tampons peaked in 1980. Can You Get Toxic Shock Syndrome from a Sanitary Pad? Today, only 1 or 2 women out of 100,000 who wear tampons for swimming will suffer from this ailment – that’s some good news which gives us a glimmer of hope! Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare, life-threatening illness that is caused by toxins (poisons) that circulate in the bloodstream. To gain an understanding of what is toxic shock syndrome is, remove your mind from the issue of pads. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. The body doesn’t develop immunity to it once you’ve had it, so you may get it more than once. I'm an introvert, curious, fun-loving girl whose passion lies in writing. It can be exhausting having to run to the restroom every other hour to make sure you haven’t bled through.