TSS

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)

What is Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)?

Toxic Shock Syndrome, more commonly known as TSS, is a rare but serious illness which may cause death. TSS is caused by a toxin (a kind of biological poison) which is produced by a type of bacteria (staphylococcus aureus). These bacteria are found in the nose of about one-third of the population. They may also be found on the skin and occasionally in the vagina without causing harm.

TSS can occur in both females and males of any age. However, it is more common in young women who use tampons during their period.

That being said, TSS is very rare. There aren’t any clear statistics in Australia, but based on the U.S. and U.K., TSS affects less than 1 in a million people each year.

If the toxin is produced in the vagina or a wound, and absorbed from there into the bloodstream, a person who is not resistant to the toxin may become ill. Most people develop resistance to the toxin (that is why the illness is so rare) and in these people there is no harmful effect.

What are the symptoms of TSS?

The early symptoms of TSS may begin suddenly and are similar to the flu. Early recognition of these symptoms is very important.

  • feeling very ill

  • headache

  • muscular pains

  • high fever and chills (39°C or 102°F or higher)

  • vomiting, diarrhoea, or both

  • fainting, dizziness, weakness or confusion

  • sunburn-like rash

Do tampons cause TSS?

The simplest answer is no. Tampons do no carry the bacteria which cause TSS but they are associated with increased risk of TSS.

Tampons are not sterile and neither are your hands or vagina. Tampons, while containing very small amounts of bacteria normally present in the air, have not been shown to carry the bacteria which cause TSS.

How can you reduce your risk of getting TSS?

Although TSS can occur with the use of tampons of any absorbency, the risk increases with the use of tampons of higher absorbency.

Reduce the risk by:

  • Using the lowest absorbency tampon for your comfort and flow

  • Use only one tampon at a time

  • Always wash your hands before and after inserting or removing a tampon

  • Unwrap a fresh, clean tampon just before use - do not handle it more than necessary or place it on any surface

  • Do not insert a tampon if it hurts to do so

  • Change your tampons regularly and never leave it in for more than 8 hours

  • Do not use tampons overnight

  • Remove the used tampon before inserting the next one

  • Remember to remove the last tampon used at the end of your period

  • Only use a tampon when you are menstruating.

  • Ask a doctor if it is okay to use a tampon if you have recently given birth, had a caesarian section, a miscarriage, an abortion or any operation on your reproductive system

  • Removal of the tampon should be easy. If the tampon is dry and difficult to remove, the absorbency is too high or the tampon has not been in place long enough. Tampons should be changed as often as you need but should not be left in longer than 8 hours

See detailed instructions here.

What to do if you think you have TSS

The symptoms may appear during your period or soon after. If any of the above symptoms appear, remove your tampon and see a doctor immediately.

Remember it is very important to tell the doctor that you have been using tampons. You may not be suffering from TSS but you should make certain. If you’ve had TSS, there’s a chance it could return, so make sure you see a doctor before using tampons again.

More information

Go to the Toxic Shock Syndrome Information Service website at www.toxicshock.org.au

^Everyone deserves to have their period needs met

Not all women menstruate, and not all who menstruate are women. Whoever you are, we support your right to accessible period products, and we're committed to creating an inclusive space for people of every gender identity.