Toxic Shock Syndrome Prevention

Prevention

Strategies to decrease your risk of toxic shock syndrome include:

• Do not use tampons continuously when menstruating.
• Alternate using a tampon with a sanitary pad.
• Switch to sanitary pads at night.
• Do not use super absorbency tampons.
• Change tampons frequently during the day.
• Store tampons in a clean, dry place.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after you put in or take out a tampon.
• Use a lower absorbency tampon if you find the tampon is irritating or hard to pull out.
• Use tampons only during menstruation.
• Seek medical care for infected wounds.
• If you have had toxic shock syndrome, do not use tampons or place birth control devices in your vagina.