The good news: The Toxic Shock Syndrome, short TSS, occurs only very rarely. About 20 people are reported in Austria every year who end up in the intensive care unit with circulatory and organ failure. Although every tampon pack on the package leaflet points out the risk of TSS disease, "tampon disease" is unknown to most girls and women. What is TSS (tampon disease)? When introducing and removing tampons during menstruation, the vaginal mucosa may be injured. Tampons stop the blood drain – so germs in the vagina can multiply unhindered. Particularly dangerous is a certain bacterium, Staphylococcus aureus. It produces toxins that can penetrate the damaged mucous membrane and get into the bloodstream. The toxins trigger an allergic reaction in case of infection, which can lead to shock, circulatory and organ failure. What are the symptoms of the toxic shock syndrome? You suddenly get a high fever, you suffer from nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. You feel dizzy and weak, your blood pressure rattles in the basement. Your skin becomes redder (similar to a sunburn) and flakes, especially on the palms and soles of the feet. How do I prevent? TSS occurs especially in the highly absorbent tampons (Super, Plus). For this you should not insert the tampon with your fingers, but with an applicator. Infections on the hand and fingers can favor the development. Also, change the tampons regularly and at frequent intervals. In addition, you should use only tampons in original packaging and do not store them loosely in the hand or trouser pocket. An alternative to traditional tampons is menstrual cup from manufacturers such as Ruby Cup, Moon Cup or Loon Cup. All information and tips on the menstrual cup