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Prevention
By Mayo Clinic staffYou can reduce your chances of getting toxic shock syndrome by changing your tampon frequently, at least every four to eight hours. Consider using the lowest absorbency tampon you can, and try to alternate using tampons and sanitary napkins whenever possible. Avoid using tampons at all when your flow is very light; use minipads instead.
Toxic shock syndrome can recur. People who've had it once can get it again. If you've had toxic shock syndrome or a prior serious staph or strep infection, don't use tampons at all.
- Cosgrove SE. Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed March 4, 2009.
- Moreillon P, et al. Staphylococcus aureus (including staphylococcal toxic shock). In: Mandell GL, et al. Principles and Practices of Infectious Diseases. 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Churchill Livingstone; 2005. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/124020242-3/0/1259/1580.html?tocnode=51381930&fromURL=1580.html. Accessed March 5, 2009.
- Eckert LO, et al. Infections of the lower genital tract: Vulva, vagina, cervix, toxic shock syndrome, HIV infections. In: Katz VL, et al. Comprehensive Gynecology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Mosby Elsevier; 2007. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/124020242-4/0/1524/147.html?tocnode=53759472&fromURL=147.html. Accessed March 5, 2009.
- Menstruation and the menstrual cycle. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office on Women's Health. www.womenshealth.gov/faq/menstruation.pdf. Accessed March 5, 2009.
