Prevent Toxic Shock Syndrome
Toxic shock syndrome is a rare, but sometimes fatal bacterial infection caused by the staphylococcus aureus bacteria and the streptococcus bacteria. It is a serious, life-threatening disease, but with the proper care and knowledge, you can prevent getting toxic shock syndrome.
Steps
- Change your menstrual product frequently. If you're using a tampon, make sure to change it every 4-6 hours and never leave it in over-night. If you're using a pad, change it twice a day and once for the night-time.
- Use the correct type of tampon for your flow, and size. Do not use a tampon that will not be fully saturated upon removal, or which you have to force inside you. Tampons may rub the vaginal walls and cause tiny scratches, which allow toxins to enter the membranes. [citation needed]
- Use contraceptive sponge and diaphragm birth control methods properly and change them frequently. Make sure they are properly and thoroughly clean before each use.
- Keep Your Hands Germ Free! Despite common beliefs, TSS is not only caused by feminine products, but by the bacteria being able to travel on hands, so make sure you always wash your hands.
- Consider other menstrual products that are not associated with risk of TSS. These include menstrual cups and sea sponges.
- Watch for another type of toxic shock syndrome called streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (or STSS) is caused by the streptococcus bacteria entering the body through injured skin, such as such as cuts and scrapes, surgical wounds, and even chickenpox blisters. [citation needed]
Tips
- When sleeping at nights, use pads instead of tampons.
- Organic cotton tampons have far less toxins in them and do not leave behind fibers in the vagina like most cotton-rayon blend tampons.
- Keep your vaginal area clean and wash it daily using a gentle, unscented soap.
- Make sure all cuts and open wounds are properly cleaned and covered up.
Warnings
- When using a tampon or any other feminine products, make sure to follow the directions carefully and never misuse them.
- Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after inserting a tampon or changing a pad.
Related Articles
- Deal With Your Period
- Deal With a Heavy Period
- Use a Tampon
- Dispose of Tampons
- Wash Your Hands
- Take a Shower
- Treat a Wound
- Treat a Puncture Wound
