Super tampons make me nervous!

I’ve heard that extra-absorbent tampons are bad because they absorb germs. Is that true? If so, what is the best kind to get?

Tampons can cause unhealthy bacterial growth, but don’t freak and toss out those tampons. Says Dr. Jennifer Griffin, instructor, department of obstetrics and gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, “The vagina has many normal bacteria, but if they grow rapidly, they can produce toxins that lead to toxic shock syndrome (TSS).”

Still, TSS is rare—about one case per 100,000 women who use tampons. By taking precautions, you can safely use tampons: Change the tampon every four hours (if you use tampons overnight, be sure to change it after eight hours), and use the smallest size tampon necessary to absorb the flow. Also, wash your hands before and after changing tampons to minimize risk of infection.  

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2/20/2010 7:00:00 AM
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