Does period pants protect against toxic shock?

Long under-reported, toxic shock syndrome is nonetheless extremely dangerous. Let's take a look at its causes and symptoms, and how period pants can help prevent it. 

What are the symptoms of toxic shock?

It's not always easy to spot the onset of toxic shock syndrome (TSS), because the symptoms are similar to those of the flu, combined with digestive problems. If these symptoms appear during your periods or menstrual cycle, be particularly vigilant:

• Feeling faint or dizzy;
• Headaches ;
• Nausea ;
• Diarrhea;
• Vomiting ;
• Fever in some cases;
• Muscle or joint pain;
• Sunburn-like rash.

These are the first signs of toxic shock. Later, other symptoms may appear:

• Lower blood pressure ;
• Accelerated heart rate ;
• Confused thoughts.

The bacteria responsible for toxic shock

TSS is caused by a bacterium called staphylococcus aureus. Staphylococcus aureus likes sto settle and develop at "mucocutaneous microbial" sites such as :

• belly button;
• NARS;
• armpits;
• SCARS;
• throat;
• the perineum ;
• lanus and vagina.

The most pathogenic variety, staphylococcus aureus is present in 40% of the population, but most people are healthy carriers. However, the situation can s'worsen if the bacterium reaches internal mucous membranes. In this case, the microbe produces a toxin, TSST-1, which spreads throughout the body via the bloodstream. It can then infect organs until they are completely unable to function.

What are the main causes of toxic shock?

There can be several causes of toxic shock:

• The use of internal sanitary protection: tampons or menstrual cups will prevent the blood from circulating and draining away. If the bacteria is present, it will be in an environment that is highly conducive to its development;
• The bacteria are already present in the vagina;
• The person produces no antibodies against TSST-1 toxin.

The sanitary protection chosen for absorption therefore has a major impact on the onset of toxic shock. They can create the ideal breeding ground for bacteria, and thus for toxin production.

Can period pants prevent toxic shock?

The risk of internal protection is that itprevents blood from draining away. This warm, moist environment is conducive to the proliferation of staphylococcus aureus. By wearing a period pants, you won't have this problem, since blood doesn't stagnate. It flows into the absorbent underwear. It's also easier to control the composition of a period pants. At Elia, we use organically grown fabrics. They have received numerous certifications for optimal respect of intimate mucosa. period pants limits the risk of toxic shock.

Other benefits of period pants

In addition to protection against the risk of toxic shock, period pants offers a number of everyday benefits:

• First and foremost, it's environmentally friendly: Elia menstrual pants can be used for 5 to 7 years, as they are washable. That's equivalent to around 3,000 disposable sanitary pads. What's more, they're chemical-free.
• It's also economical: your purchase will pay for itself in just 3 months.
• Very comfortable: periods knickers are easy to wear every day. You can slip them on just like regular underwear. A wide range of models are available in our catalog. Shorty, knickerbocker, cyclist, but also models for teenagers or even swimwear. We offer a wide range sto suit every need.

Our Elia menstrual briefs come in a range of flows, from light to heavy. You can also wear them during the post-partum period to absorb urine leakage, vaginal discharge or the bleeding often endured following childbirth.

What to do in the event of toxic shock syndrome?

If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, the first thing to do isremove your internal sanitary protection immediately. Next, visit a doctor to confirm the diagnosis of toxic shock syndrome. He or she will prescribe the appropriate treatment. Fortunately, antibiotics are sufficient to cure the infection. However, they must be received in time to completely eradicate the bacteria. Antibiotics eliminate the toxin, preventing it from circulating through the body and damaging organs. Treatment is administered intravenously, so hospitalization is necessary.

Our advice for avoiding toxic shock

The good news is that you can take a few simple steps to avoid toxic shock:

• If possible, don't use internal sanitary pads. Instead, use sanitary towels or menstrual panties to allow the blood to drain away.
• In all cases, please observe the indicated times of use. Change your pads every 4 to 6 hours at most.
• You should also avoid using tampons at night. When changing your protection, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly to avoid exposing your vaginal mucosa to potential bacteria.

A serious disease, TSS can be prevented or cured sif caught early. So it's vital to learn how to spot the symptoms. You can limit the risk of toxic shock by going to period pants and letting the blood flow s.

FAQs on period pants and toxic shock

How to avoid toxic shock with a period pants ?

How can I avoid toxic shock with a tampon?

How can I avoid toxic shock with a menstrual cup?