Health Tip: Avoiding Toxic Shock Syndrome

Change tampons frequently and follow package instructions

April 13, 2009 RSS Feed Print

(HealthDay News) -- Wearing the same tampon for an extended amount of time could lead to a rare, but sometimes deadly disease called toxic shock syndrome (TSS).

The National Women's Health Information Center offers this advice on how to avoid TSS:

Always follow the instructions in the package on inserting and using the product.
Use the lowest absorbency tampons that will work for you.
Change your tampon every four to eight hours; never leave one in longer than that.
Consider switching between tampons and pads.
Only use tampons when you have your period, never between cycles.