The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has made recommendations to help women avoid tampon-associated toxic shock syndrome (TSS). Although tampon-associated TSS is less common than in the 1980’s it still can occur.
Key recommendations:
(1) Do not leave a tampon in place for more than 4-6 hours.
(2) Do not leave a tampon in place in place when sleeping or overnight.
(3) Use a tampon with the lowest absorbency needed to control the menstrual flow.
(4) Be aware of early signs and symptoms of the toxic shock syndrome, such as fever. Discontinue tampon use if signs and symptoms occur. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.
Additional recommendations:
(1) Follow the package instructions for insertion. Try to minimize trauma to the mucosa.
(2) Alternate between use of tampons and pads.
(3) Consider using cloth or cotton tampons rather than ones made of rayon.
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