Tampon Safety and Toxic Shock Syndrome

Change tampons at least every three to four hours.

Know the symptoms of toxic shock syndrome, a rare but potentially fatal bacterial infection seen almost exclusively in girls and young women who wear tampons:

Initial Symptoms

• Vomiting
• Fever of 102° or higher
• Watery diarrhea
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Aching muscles

Within 24 Hours

• Sunburn-like rash
• Bloodshot eyes
• Redness under the eyes, inside the mouth, in the vagina

Days 3 and 4

• Broken blood vessels may appear on the skin

Other Possible Symptoms

• Confusion
• Decreased urination
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Extreme thirst
• Weak, rapid pulse
• Pale complexion
• Cool, moist skin
• Rapid breathing