Toxic Shock Syndrome: What They Don’t Tell You About Tampons.

Toxic Shock Syndrome: What They Don’t Tell You About Tampons.

You’ve seen the warning on the box. But what does it really mean, and should we still be using tampons? 

 

Most of us started using tampons without really knowing much about what’s inside them or what risks come with them. We were told they were “convenient” and “clean.” Period care, right?

But here’s something most people don’t talk about nearly enough: Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).

Wait—What Even Is Toxic Shock Syndrome?

TSS is a rare but serious bacterial infection that can happen when certain toxins (mainly from Staphylococcus aureus) enter your bloodstream. In extreme cases, it can cause organ failure, and yes, even death.

The scary part? It’s been linked to tampon use—especially the super-absorbent ones and when they’re left in for too long.

What No One Told Us About Tampons

You’ve probably seen the tiny TSS warning on tampon boxes—but no one ever really explains it. Here’s the reality:

  • Tampons sit inside the vagina and soak up blood and moisture, creating a warm, absorbent space where bacteria can grow.

  • Leaving them in too long (more than 4–8 hours) increases the risk.

  • High-absorbency tampons, which sound super convenient, can dry out and irritate the vaginal walls, making it easier for bacteria to do damage.

In the 1980s, a specific tampon brand was pulled off shelves after it was linked to a spike in TSS cases. But still, the conversation stopped there.

So… Are Menstrual Cups Safer?

In short: yes.

Menstrual cups, like the ones we make at Tessa, are made from medical-grade silicone and collect blood instead of absorbing it. That makes a big difference.

Here’s why cups are considered safer:

  • ✅ They don’t mess with your vaginal pH or dry things out.

  • ✅ There’s no fibrous material for bacteria to cling to.

  • ✅ You can wear them for up to 12 hours safely (without running to the bathroom every few hours).

  • ✅ They’ve been linked to very, very few TSS cases globally.

While no period product is 100% risk-free, the odds of getting TSS from a menstrual cup are incredibly low—especially if you clean it properly and listen to your body.

What You Should Watch Out For

If you still use tampons (no judgment—we’re all figuring it out), just know the signs of TSS. It usually starts suddenly, and symptoms include:

High fever

Vomiting or diarrhea

A rash that looks like sunburn

Muscle aches

Dizziness or fainting

Confusion

If you experience any of these while on your period, get medical help immediately.

Why This Matters

We created Tessa not just to offer a better product, but to have real conversations about things like this. Because period care shouldn’t be about fear or confusion. It should be about choice, comfort, and being informed.

You deserve to know what’s going in your body. You deserve to feel safe and in control. And if the cup feels like the better choice for you—we’re here for it.

Final Thought

TSS may be rare, but it’s real. And no one should be finding out about it after they’ve already had a health scare. We’re not here to shame tampons—but we are here to say:

You’ve got safer, smarter options.

And that’s something worth talking about.

With care,
Team Tessa 💜


 

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