Menstrual cup and toxic shock, what is the real danger?

In 2015, the American model Lauren Wasser publicizes his amputation. The images are shocking. The doctors had to amputate his leg because of the toxic shock syndrome ou SCT from which the young woman suffers. This blood contamination, this bacterial infection (staphylococcus aureus) very serious because of a simple tampon had dramatic consequences for her for the rest of her life.

A few years later, she had to have her other leg amputated, which was also affected. Once again the SCT is in the media. If the stamp instructionss mention this syndrome, very few women were really aware of the real risks of TSS. The media coverage of the story of this model made it possible to open the debate on the composition of tampons and more broadly disposable sanitary pads, to raise awareness and take an interest in other gentler alternatives, more respectful of the environment and health.

What about the risks of SCT with a cup ? Can the menstrual cup cause toxic shock? What are the dangers ? What are the symptoms of toxic shock? Is a cup as dangerous as a tampon? How avoid menstrual toxic shock syndrome with a cup? What are the precautions?

What is Toxic Shock Syndrome?

Good to know

We have already talked about it here on the Louloucup blog in quite detail, so we invite you to consult our article dedicated to this question if the subject interests you particularly: What should you remember about toxic shock syndrome?

Let us first remember that this infection remains rare. Not all women carry this bacteria. This bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus (S-aureus) is present in the woman's vagina (but also in the nose, throat, digestive tract and skin).

A woman carrying the S-aureus bacteria and who uses a wrong way internal periodic protection who collects the blood (tampon or menstrual cup) has a greater risk of developing toxic shock.

Rare but serious, it is important to recognize the symptoms of this disease in order to be able to quickly refer the doctor if one day you find yourself confronted with this situation.

Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome

Toxic shock syndrome can be treated if detected in time. The first ones symptoms looks like the flu:

• a sudden fever,
• vomiting/diarrhea,
• muscle pain,
• skin rashes that look like sunburn,
• headaches…

Then, more serious symptoms appear:

• low blood pressure,
• and an acceleration of the heart. 

These very varied and different symptoms made the diagnosis complex for many years. If you suffer from fever and vomiting during your menstrual cycle, do not forget to inform the doctors so that they can examine you.

Link between menstrual cup and toxic shock

We already know that improper use of tampons can lead to toxic shock. The blood retained by the tampon is ideal for the bacteria to grow. Keeping the tampon on for more than six hours, all night, all day without changing it poses proven risks to the woman.

What about the menstrual cup? Is the menstrual cup dangerous?

One cup 4 to 6 hours maximum

Just like the tampon, the menstrual cup is a hygienic protection and internal intimacy. In the same way, it retains blood. It is therefore necessary, just as with the tampon, to follow the brand recommendations.

At Louloucup, we strongly recommend change, empty and wash the cup every 4 to 6 hours maximum. We also do not recommend wearing the cup at night and instead recommend the use of heavy flow period panties or very abundant to spend a night dry.

With the right actions, you greatly limit the risks of developing toxic shock. It is therefore important to use the period cup responsibly

The Loulou cup is healthier for your health

If the risk of toxic shock remains minimal, it is important to emphasize that the period cut remains very interesting from a composition point of view compared to the tampon.

The Louloucup cup is made from 100% medical silicone. It is also made in France. It does not contain phthalates or bisphenol A and is latex and fragrance free. A healthy, comfortable and ecological solution.

Tips to limit the risks cup toxic shock

Reminder: know how to use your cup properly

The menstrual cup does not represent any danger if you respect all necessary precautions before use :

• Wait for the start of your period before using the cup to avoid vaginal dryness. 
• Wash your hands properly with solid soap. In addition to being committed to menstrual poverty, it is important to us to fight against global warming. Therefore, we advise you to use solid soap in order to reduce our CO2 impact. 
• Do not wear the menstrual cup for more than 6 hours. 
• Clean the menstrual cup at least once a day with clear water and a mild, fragrance-free soap or intimate gel
• Sterilize the cup at the end or start of each cycle with boiling water or in the microwave. 
• Opt for a menstrual cup adapted to your flow and your body shape so that it adapts perfectly to the wall of the vagina. This is why we offer two sizes by Louloucup : size M if the flow is significant and size S if the flow is normal.
• Listen to your body to find out whether or not you have any symptoms.

LoulouCup takes care of your body 

The goal is not to ban the menstrual cup but to ensure that women are aware of the proper use of it and the risks it can cause. 

The cup is a healthy, ecological and economical alternative classic and traditional tampons and sanitary napkins. By following the advice cited above, you have very little risk of experiencing toxic shock syndrome. 

Each menstrual cup comes with a job guide to accompany you.