Health Tip: Avoiding Toxic Shock Syndrome

(HealthDay News) -- Wearing the same tampon for an extended amount of time could lead to a rare, but sometimes deadly disease called toxic shock syndrome (TSS).

The National Women's Health Information Center offers this advice on how to avoid TSS:

• Always follow the instructions in the package on inserting and using the product.
• Use the lowest absorbency tampons that will work for you.
• Change your tampon every four to eight hours; never leave one in longer than that.
• Consider switching between tampons and pads.
• Only use tampons when you have your period, never between cycles.