Can you still get toxic shock syndrome from keeping your cup in too long?

Question

I've heard that this is just from the toxins in tampons so I'm not sure if there is still a risk or not?

Answer

It's possible, but very, very unlikely. TSS is caused by bacteria entering the bloodstream. The same bacteria already naturally exists there in small amounts, but when it gets into the blood stream that what causes problems. The material tampons are made of house bacteria extremely well, while the material of menstrual cups do not. Tampons also dry the vagina out, making the fibres of the tampon more likely to create micro tears on the vaginal wall which is what allows bacteria into the bloodstream. This is far more unlikely with menstrual cups as they don't dry anything up and aren't made of fibres which are likely to create tears. The risk is still there but its much more slim. Also "too long" to have a menstrual cup in is something more like 30+ hours, in comparison to the 8+ hours for tampons.

Answer

No! You should still change your cup regularly though just for hygiene 😊

Answer

Yes. TSS is caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureua or Streptococcus pyrogenes. If either of these are introduced into a growth media like blood, you will get TSS. The longer you leave it in past the recommended time, the greater the risk.

Answer

There is zero risk of TSS with cup use. This is one of the major advantages of switching. Still need to empty and clean at most every 12 hours simply for hygienic reasons. I mean, no matter what, it's not healthy to leave anything bloody inside more than what's recommended.

Answer

No because its silicone and not harmful chemicals like pass and tampons is safe to use the cup and live it in 8 to 12 hrs just change it every so often

Answer

You can still be at risk but (correct me if I'm wrong) I think the risk is far lower because tampons can cause small scratches or tears in the wall linings of the vagina which bacteria can access.

Can you still get toxic shock syndrome from keeping your cup in too long?

Let's Glow!

The Top Baby Tracker App: Embrace New Beginnings with Tender Care

The Top Fertility Tracker App: Your Path to Achieving Pregnancy

The Top Pregnancy App: Nurturing Your Journey to Motherhood

The Top Period Tracker for Empowering Your Menstrual Health Journey