What is Toxic Shock Syndrome?

Tampons are inserted inside your vagina during menstrual cycles. They work just like the sanitary napkins. However, the chances of getting an infection are high when you are using a tampon as they are in close contact with your vagina.

If you forget to remove the tampon for more than five to six days then you may get an infection called Toxic Shock Syndrome.

When the tampon is left inside the vagina for days together it invites bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. This bacterium starts infecting your vaginal area locally and when ignored, the infection starts spreading.

It infects the blood stream and then starts affecting the vital organs of your body like the kidney and causes renal failure. In some cases it can also prove fatal. The infection starts off with a rash in your genital area followed by severe itching.

You might also suffer from fatigue, high fever, vomiting and unusual vaginal discharge.

Problem in Conceiving

When this infection is ignored, it spreads and goes up to your fallopian tubes and can cause tubal blockage. This can cause problems in conceiving. It can also make you infertile.

This infection can also affect your uterus which may cause problems in your menstrual cycles.

How is it Treated?

The first thing that you need to do is remove the tampon. If the infection is not very severe then it can be treated with antibiotics and some cream.

However, if the infection is very severe then you may be hospitalised. In such cases, it is very important to stop the infection from spreading and affecting the organs. So you may be put on intravenous fluids and antibiotics for immediate effect.

Then a close monitoring is done on your condition. However, the type of treatment and antibiotics may differ from case to case.

If you are forgetful then it is better that you opt for a sanitary napkin which is comfortable and has thick layering. The quality of the tampon does not really matter. All that matters is how often you change the tampon and whether you remember to remove the tampon from your vagina.

(With inputs from Dr. Vanita Raut, Gynaecologist and Obstetrician from Hiranandani Hospital, Mumbai)