Preventing toxic shock syndrome

The following measures can help reduce your risk of TSS:

• treat wounds and burns quickly and get medical advice if you develop signs of an infection, such as swelling, redness and increasing pain
• always use a tampon with the lowest absorbency suitable for your menstrual flow
• alternate tampons with a sanitary towel or panty liners during your period
• wash your hands before and after inserting a tampon
• change tampons regularly as often as directed on the pack (usually at least every four to eight hours)
• never insert more than one tampon at a time
• when using a tampon at night, insert a fresh tampon before going to bed and remove it on waking
• remove a tampon at the end ofyour period
• whenusingfemale barrier contraception, follow the manufacturer's instructions about how long you can leave it in

It's a good idea to avoid using tampons orfemale barrier contraception if you've had TSS before.