- Natracare Organic Tampons - Natracare
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare bacterial infection caused by staphylococcus aureus bacteria. According to the NHS (UK) it affects around 20 people a year, causing two or three fatalities.
Staphylococcus aureus bacteria can be found on the skin, in the mouth, throat and intestines, and is usually harmless. However, it is thought that TSS is caused by a multiplication of bacteria and the release of toxins, which are poisonous to the body. This can occur in the vagina when super-absorbent tampons are used for long periods of time. Toxins enter the bloodstream, infecting the body and begin to attack vital organs such as the kidneys.
In most cases, the body is able to fight off the bacteria. However, younger women who haven't built up immunity to the bacteria are susceptible, as are those who are recovering from illness and have a compromised immune system. If left untreated, it is life-threatening.
Causes Of Toxic Shock Syndrome
TSS has been linked to the use of super-absorbent tampons in younger women (under 25), although there is no scientific evidence to prove this. In the 1980s there was an outbreak of TSS among women using a brand of super-absorbent tampons. The tampons were withdrawn and research is ongoing. Sanitary product manufacturers now include warnings about TSS in the packaging.
Scientists aren’t sure how TSS occurs when the bacteria responsible live harmlessly in the body in most cases but they have linked it to the multiplication of bacteria in the vagina (a moist breeding ground for infection). The risk is heightened if sanitary protection is worn for long periods, or with tight jeans, hosiery and non-cotton underwear. It is also thought that tampon fibres can tear the delicate vaginal tissue introducing toxins into the bloodstream.
Non-menstrual TSS can occur post-childbirth, post-abortion, and has been linked to skin injuries (infected wounds e.g. post surgery, bruising, piercings and tattoos). Use of internal contraceptives such as the cervical cap, IUD, sponge and diaphragm can also be a risk factor.
Those who already have a weak immune system from diabetes, cancer, respiratory conditions, or an autoimmune disease are more at risk. In children, it can be caused by chickenpox.
Toxic Shock Symptoms And Signs
Symptoms of TSS develop quickly - i.e. a short time after inserting a tampon. A fever usually develops and this may be accompanied by the following:
- flu-like symptoms – muscle ache and pains, a sore throat
- stomach cramps
- headaches
- diarrhoea
- shock symptoms – confusion and dizziness. The rapid drop in blood pressure causes this
- a rash on the hands and/or feet, which starts to peel after a few days
Toxic Shock Syndrome Treatment
There is no single test to diagnose TSS but according to the NHS, it is present when a person has a skin rash, a temperature above 102ºF, systolic blood pressure below 90mmHg, and when three or more organs are under attack from the infection. This can be measured through blood and urine tests.
The main aim of treatment is to get rid of the infection and to support the body organs that are being attacked by the toxins.
Medline Plus defines TSS as a medical emergency so if any of the above symptoms occur it is vital to seek medical attention. If tampon use is suspected, remove the tampon immediately and take it to the hospital for testing. Any open wounds will be cleaned up, antibiotics administered, fluids to rehydrate the body, and treatment will be given to help regulate blood pressure.
Treatment is usually successful if the condition is caught early, and if there are no further complications it should clear up within a week or so.
Preventing Toxic Shock Syndrome
If you are concerned about menstrual TSS buy organic brands such as Natracare or use a menstrual cup, such as the Mooncup. Regular cotton sanitary products contain high levels of pesticides and chemicals, which are absorbed by the body when used for prolonged periods. Use low absorbency products and change them regularly. You may wish to review your contraception if you have been using an internal method such as the cervical cap or IUD.
Hand hygiene is also important during your period – wash your hands before and after changing a tampon. Wear cotton underwear to allow the vagina to breathe and avoid tight jeans, synthetic fabrics and hosiery, which encourage the growth of bacteria. Overnight, wear a menstrual cup or sanitary towels. Avoid douching and fragranced sanitary wipes or sprays. The vagina is self-cleaning and only requires water.
TSS is a rare condition, thankfully, and we are aware of it because of outbreaks of the condition in recent years. Menstrual TSS is easy to prevent, if you use the right products and maintain good hygiene. Explore some of the natural sanitary products on the market, and it’s a good idea to review your contraception methods if you have been using an internal method for a while.
Source:
Davis JP et al, Toxic Shock Syndrome: epidemiological features, recurrence, risk factors and prevention. New England Journal of Medicine 1980303:1429 – 1435.
NHS: Toxic Shock Syndrome, accessed 12/01/10.
Medline Plus: Toxic Shock Syndrome, accessed 12/01/10.
Bupa Healthcare factsheet: Toxic Shock Syndrome, accessed 12/01/10.
The Toxic Shock Information Service: toxicshock.com
The Mayo Clinic: Toxic Shock Syndrom, accessed 12/01/10.
NHS Direct (out of hours healthcare advice line) +44 (0)845 46 47.
Nicci Talbot - Nicci Talbot is a freelance journalist and author specialising in health, wellbeing & sexuality. She blogs at www.inrudehealth.com.
