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TSS: Are You at Risk?

FitSugar — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 02:30:00 -0700

Most of the women I know use tampons when they have their periods. They're discreet, easy to use, and make things like swimming, exercising, and sleeping so much more comfortable. Once a month, I raise my bar of chocolate in thanks to the marvelous inventor of tampons.

If you use tampons regularly, you've got to be aware of your risk of TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome). This condition is rare, but since it is life threatening, you should know the facts.

TSS is caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes (group A strep) or Staphylococcus aureus (staph). These bacteria are common and cause conditions such as strep throat or impetigo. Rarely these toxins enter the bloodstream and can cause TSS.

Some researchers believe that keeping high absorbency tampons inside you for a long time can put you at risk because they become a breeding ground for the bacteria. Others suggest that tampons can stick to the skin inside of your vagina, and when you pull it out, the skin can tear or get scratched allowing the bacteria to enter the bloodstream. If that happens, it can cause a sharp drop in blood pressure, depriving vital organs of oxygen, which could lead to death.

Want to know what you can do to reduce your risk? Then read more

Don't use tampons at all.
If that's not an option, be sure to change your tampon frequently, at least every four to six hours.
Use the the lowest absorbency that you need. The higher the absorbency, the greater the risk.
Consider alternating between pads and tampons, and use pads when your flow is really light.
If you use a diaphragm, don't leave it in more than 24 hours.
If you use a cervical cap, don't leave it in more than 48 hours.

Source

You Asked: Are Chlorine-Free Tampons Healthier?

FitSugar — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 09:00:36 -0700

Dear Fit,
I was at the health-food store and noticed chlorine-free tampons made with organic cotton. They cost $5.99 for a box of 20, and the ones I buy at the grocery store cost $6.99 for 40. Are they worth paying almost twice as much?
-Trying to Save a Buck

With the economy the way it is, I can understand you looking for places to save money. To find out if chlorine-free tampons are worth the splurge keep reading

In the Market For a Tampon Holder?

DearSugar — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:00:00 -0700

Sometimes old Aunt Flow comes a little earlier than expected, so it's a good idea to keep some emergency tampons on hand just in case. Here are some adorable holders you can keep in your purse or at your desk so your tampons stay clean and protected. Enjoy!

View Slideshow ›

Tampons Descend on Unsuspecting Sunbathers

TresSugar — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 11:30:00 -0700

Did you know one in seven women avoid the beach during their period? PR firm Labresse does! That's why it dropped tampons in pink parachutes down on Dutch beaches. Too bad its audience stayed home because of the high tides that day.

Don't worry if you can't watch the video. Unless you speak Dutch, you won't understand a word. You really don't need to! Parachuted tampons descending on a beach like medicine to a remote village is universally weird.

Organic Cotton Tampons: What For?

FitSugar — Thu, 05 Apr 2007 15:45:00 -0700

Have you ever thought about the tampons you use? You may buy a certain brand because that's what your mother uses, or it's what you've been using forever, or the brand is on sale.

It pays to read the label of your feminine hygiene products too. The next time you buy tampons, check to see if they are made with chlorine free organic cotton. Organic cotton tampons are made without rayon, synthetic chemicals, binders, or fillers.

Here's why you might not want to be putting rayon inside your body - it is chlorine-bleached and dioxin, a by-product of that bleaching process, is a carcinogenic. Dioxins have been found to collect in the fatty tissues of animals, including humans.

Research has shown evidence that even low levels of dioxins may be linked to cancer, endometriosis, low sperm counts, and immune system suppression. Considering a woman may use as many as 11,000 tampons in her lifetime, she may be subjecting herself to additional dioxin exposure.

Fit's Tips: If you are not using non-chlorine bleached organic cotton tampons, look for ones made by Natracare, Seventh Generation, or Organic Essentials. You can find them at a health food store near you with or without applicators, in Regular, Super, or Super Plus absorbencies.

Dude on a Tampon Run Must Decide: Mini or Super?

GiggleSugar — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 07:00:00 -0700

With the vast array of brands and "sleek designs" and colors and smells and grips and absorption options, how does a dude on a tampon run make a selection? Let's just say his fingers take no part in the picking. Neither does his brain.

Tampons and Maxi Pads: A Walk Down Memory Lane

TresSugar — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 15:15:00 -0700

Whether you call it your Moon Time or the Curse, if you're a woman, you have to contend with a monthly period. Let's take a look at how advertising sold its pads and 'pons to women of yore. Whether it was through distraction (hey, look, a pretty dress!) or through the rhetoric of freedom, advertisers did their best to sell a product women have never really been thrilled to buy.

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Serena Williams vs. Aunt Flo - Love It or Leave It?

TresSugar — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 09:00:00 -0700

While I think tampons sell themselves thanks to their life-changing qualities, Tampax has recruited tennis great Serena Williams to pitch their lady products in a new commercial. Dressed in her tennis whites, Serena has nothing to fear from Mother Nature, because she's also wearing a tampon! Over the years, companies have appealed to femininity or used the rhetoric of freedom to sell tampons to women. What do you make of the latest attempt?

How Long Until Your Aunt Flo Returned?

LilSugar — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 07:00:58 -0800

Pregnancy has its drawbacks, but one thing an expectant mama can get some relief from is her monthly period. A nine month (and often more) break from her monthly friend is a nice perk for most moms, but all good things must come to an end. Eventually, the cramps will return along with the tampons, pads, and PMS. Many women don't get their period for a few months after giving birth (especially those that are breastfeeding), but some get back on track as soon as the baby comes home from the hospital.

How long until you got a visit from Aunt Flo after having your baby?

Vampax: Stay Close to Your Vampire Boyfriend All Month Long

TresSugar — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:00:52 -0800

Twilight Cycles from Brandon Routh

Is your monthly cycle getting between you and your vampire lover? Sounds like you need Vampax - new tampon technology that promises to keep you safe while you run around the forest with your brooding bloodsucking boyfriend. Learn all about it in this Twilight parody from the people at Funny or Die. It's disgustingly funny.