Gynaecological pain and disorders Testimonials All about periods and its cycle January 31, 2020

How do you get toxic shock syndrome?

By Marion Nougier

Today, we're talking about a rare but very serious disease: Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). In this article, you'll find the definition of TSS, as well as the story of Léona, who contracted the disease during a trip to Australia.

What is toxic shock syndrome, also known as TSS?

TSS is a very rare but serious infection caused by the proliferation and release of bacteria into the bloodstream. According to reports received by the Centre National de Référence des Staphylocoques, fewer than 20 women a year are affected by TSS. These include users of tampons and menstrual cups.

Toxic shock syndrome is caused by Staphylococcus Aureus bacteria, which produce toxins that trigger inflammation. In response, the body mass-produces immune cells that can cause shock. The body then concentrates its efforts on the vital organs, neglecting the extremities (legs, arms, etc.).

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) was brought to light in 2012 by the American Lauren Wasser, who had her right leg amputated after contracting toxic shock syndrome. In the early 1980s, over 700 women in North America fell victim to Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). The news doesn't stop there: in January 2020, a 17-year-old Belgian woman died after contracting the disease following a misdiagnosis.

Why is toxic shock syndrome contracted from tampons and cups?

The vaginal mucosa that keeps a tampon in for too long is more fragile. It is more prone to irritation, which can cause lesions that facilitate the passage of staphylococci or toxins into l..

For staphylococcus aureus to develop toxins, it needs a favorable culture medium: this is where the relationship with buffers, cup comes in.
If the buffer is kept too long or its absorption capacity is too high, the blood remains in the body at room temperature (36/37°).
It stagnates and greatly encourages the development of bacteria...

Our advice

Do not use tampons, but use external sanitary protection such as our Elia menstrual panties.

If you use pads or cups :

Don't use tampons if you don't need them - Not allowed outside periods. Wear Elia panties to protect yourself against leaks or for reassurance.
Use tampons with very low absorbency and change them regularly. You can wear your Elia panties if you're worried about leaks.
Replace tampons every 4 to 6 hours / Same for the cup, disinfecting/sterilizing as much as possible!
We advise against wearing tampons or cups at night.
Wash your hands before handling any tampon or cup.

Symptoms of toxic shock :

If you start to feel ill, talk to your doctor and tell him or her that you think you may have TSS. Some symptoms to consider: Sudden fever (38.9°C or higher), vomiting, sore throat, diarrhea, skin rash (redness), severe muscle pain, dizziness, fainting.

Sources :https://www.toxicshock.com/