Tampons can increase the risk of TSS in two ways, including: Tampons (especially super-absorbent varieties) that are left in the vagina for a long time may encourage the bacteria to grow. Tampons can stick to the vaginal walls, especially when blood flow is light, causing tiny abrasions when they are removed.

What tampons are most likely to cause TSS?

Super-absorbent tampons are more likely to cause toxic shock syndrome because they become highly saturated with blood, making it an ideal environment for rapid growth of bacteria.

Can all tampons give you TSS?

Although menstruating women using tampons are at higher risk of TSS, tampons do not cause TSS.