THE 411 ON TOXIC SHOCK SYNDROME 

In the late 1970s, the world first learned about Toxic Shock Syndrome, or TSS, when women across the United States were diagnosed. Super-absorbency tampons with synthetic fibers had recently become available and they were being used for longer stretches. 

Changes in how tampons are made coupled with more awareness have reduced the occurrence of TSS, but it still affects women, mostly those aged 15-25 who use tampons. To protect yourself against the dangers of Toxic Shock Syndrome, it's important to first understand what it is.

Toxic Shock Syndrome

TSS is a rare but life-threatening condition caused by a bacterial infection that primarily affects menstruating females. Certain bacterial infections, in particularStaphylococcus aureus andStreptococcus pyogenes — better-known as staph and strep — release toxins into the bloodstream that can also spread to the organs, causing a sudden onset of flu-like symptoms that can lead to organ failure, seizures, and even death. 

While many people carry these bacteria on their skin and mucous membranes without experiencing any problems, under the right conditions they can act as a petri dish, wreaking havoc in the body. One of those perfect conditions is wearing a tampon longer than the recommended time or consistently using high-absorbency tampons.

There's no way to tell what the risk is for getting TSS, so the best thing to do is be safe by ditching conventional tampons altogether.  

A Safer Alternative

Scientific studies have shown that conventional feminine hygiene products are made with ingredients containing pesticide residue, dioxins, GMOs, and other toxins that have been linked to reproductive harm and cancer. Further, tampons made of synthetic fibers leave microfibers behind when they are removed, increasing the risk for TSS.

Using products made of 100% natural cotton such as those made by Veeda is much, much safer. The cotton in the products Veeda uses is free from GMOs and pesticides, and is 100% biodegradable and hypoallergenic. Users even report shorter and less-uncomfortable periods. 

Although Toxic Shock Syndrome isn't common, the potential risks of using conventional tampons and other feminine hygiene products simply aren't worth it. Make the switch and check out the offerings at Veeda today.