How many people get tss each year

Avoid using super-absorbent tampons. Only unwrap the tampon if you are going to use it immediately. Do not handle the tampon more than you need to.

Wash your hands thoroughly before and after inserting the tampon. Be gentle when inserting and removing tampons. Avoid applicator tampons, as the applicator may scrape the vaginal walls. Use pads sanitary napkins instead of tampons overnight. Maintain personal hygiene during your period. Do not wear tampons when you do not have your period.

Consider using pads or panty liners during the last day or so of your period when your flow is light. Use a lubricating jelly when inserting tampons in the last day or so of your period when your flow is light. There are no clinical trials supporting the use of menstrual cups to reduce the risk of TSS.

Where to get help In an emergency, always call an ambulance by dialling triple zero Your doctor Emergency department of your nearest hospital Things to remember Toxic shock syndrome TSS is a rare and potentially life-threatening illness that is thought to be caused by infection with certain types of bacteria. Women who have their period are menstruating are most at risk of getting TSS, as it is thought to be associated with tampon use. Suggestions for reducing the risk of TSS include changing tampons regularly and using pads instead of tampons overnight.

More information here. Give feedback about this page. Was this page helpful? Yes No. View all infections. In general, TSS symptoms can develop as soon as 12 hours after a surgical procedure. Symptoms usually develop in 3 to 5 days in women who are menstruating and using tampons. If you experience the above symptoms after using tampons or after a surgery or skin injury, contact your health care provider immediately.

Toxic shock syndrome requires immediate emergency care in a hospital. Call or go to the nearest emergency department right away if you think you have TSS. If you experience any of the symptoms of TSS while using a tampon, remove the tampon and see your health care provider right away.

Inform them that you were using a tampon when the symptoms started. TSS cannot be treated at home. Hospital care is required for treating a staph infection and related complications caused by TSS, such as shock. You will be given antibiotics to kill the bacteria and stop further release of toxins.

If the source of infection involves a tampon, diaphragm or contraceptive sponge, it should be removed as soon as possible. TSS from a staph infection can affect anyone; however, some people are at greater risk of TSS than others. Women who use tampons, menstrual cups, diaphragms, cervical caps or contraceptive sponges can prevent TSS by:.

Skip to main content. Most people will start to feel better within a few days, but it may take several weeks before you're well enough to leave hospital. These bacteria normally live on the skin and in the nose or mouth without causing harm, but if they get deeper into the body they can release toxins that damage tissue and stop organs working. TSS is not spread from person to person. You do not develop immunity to it once you've had it, so you can get it more than once.

It's a good idea to avoid using tampons or female barrier contraception if you've had TSS before. Page last reviewed: 27 September Next review due: 27 September