Health Tip: Use Tampons Properly

Here are some guidelines

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(HealthDay News) -- Tampons, which help women control menstrual bleeding, must be used properly to prevent an infection called toxic shock syndrome (TSS).

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The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers these guidelines for tampon safety:

• Follow directions provided by the manufacturer to ensure that tampons are used properly.
• Use the lowest possible absorbency to control your menstrual bleeding.
• Change the tampon at least every four to eight hours.
• Try to alternate use of tampons with sanitary pads.
• Call your doctor immediately if you have any symptoms of TSS, which may include: sudden fever of more than 102 degrees, muscle aches, diarrhea, vomiting, dizziness, fainting, rash, sore throat or bloodshot eyes.

-- Diana Kohnle