Menstrual cup and toxic shock: what is the real risk?

In 2015, American model Lauren Wasser brought attention to her amputation. The images were shocking. Doctors had to amputate her leg due to toxic shock syndrome (TSS), which she developed. This severe blood infection, caused by the bacterium staphylococcus aureus from a simple tampon, had devastating lifelong consequences for her.

A few years later, she had to have her other leg amputated, as it was also affected. Once again, TSS made headlines. While tampon instructions mention this syndrome, very few women were truly aware of the real risks of TSS. The publicity surrounding this model’s story helped open up the conversation about tampon composition and, more broadly, disposable period products, raising awareness and encouraging interest in gentler, more eco-friendly, and healthier alternatives.

What about the risks of TSS with a cup? Can a menstrual cup cause toxic shock syndrome? What are the dangers? What are the symptoms of toxic shock? Is a cup as dangerous as a tampon? How can you prevent menstrual toxic shock syndrome with a cup? What precautions should you take?

What is toxic shock syndrome?

Good to know

We’ve already discussed this in detail on the Louloucup blog, so if you’re interested in the topic, check out our dedicated article: What should you know about Toxic Shock Syndrome?

First, let’s remember that this infection is rare. Not all women carry this bacterium. This bacterium, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), is present in the vagina (but also in the nose, throat, digestive tract, and on the skin).

A woman carrying the S. aureus bacteria who uses an internal period product incorrectly (like a tampon or menstrual cup) that collects blood is at higher risk of developing toxic shock syndrome. Rare but serious, it’s important to recognize the symptoms of this illness so you can quickly inform a doctor if you ever face this situation.

Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome

Toxic shock syndrome can be treated if detected in time. The first symptoms are similar to the flu:

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

Then, more serious symptoms begin to appear:

• low blood pressure,
• and a racing heartbeat. 

These wide-ranging and varying symptoms made diagnosis difficult for many years. If you experience fever and vomiting during your menstrual cycle, be sure to inform your doctors so they can examine you.

Link between menstrual cup and toxic shock syndrome

We already know that improper tampon use can lead to toxic shock. The blood retained by a tampon is the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. Keeping a tampon in for more than six hours, overnight, or all day without changing it exposes women to real risks.

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

A cup for 4 to 6 hours max

Just like tampons, menstrual cups are a form of internal feminine hygiene protection. They serve the same purpose by collecting menstrual blood. Therefore, as with tampons, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

At Louloucup, we strongly advise changing, emptying, and washing your cup every 4 to 6 hours at most. We also do not recommend wearing a cup overnight; instead, we suggest using heavy or very heavy flow period underwear to ensure a dry night’s sleep.

With the right habits, you greatly reduce the risk of developing toxic shock syndrome. Responsible use of your menstrual cup is important.

The Loulou cup: healthier for your body

While the risk of toxic shock remains low, it’s worth noting that menstrual cups are much better in terms of composition compared to tampons.

The Louloucup cup is made of 100% medical-grade silicone. It's also made in France. It contains no phthalates, no bisphenol A, and is latex- and fragrance-free. A healthy, comfortable, and eco-friendly solution.

Tips for reducing the risk of toxic shock syndrome with menstrual cups

Reminder: How to use your cup correctly

A menstrual cup is completely safe as long as you follow all the necessary precautions before use:

• Wait until your period starts before using the cup to avoid vaginal dryness. 
• Wash your hands properly with a bar of soap. In addition to our commitment to fighting period poverty, we also care deeply about combating climate change. That’s why we recommend using a bar of soap to reduce our CO2 impact. 
• Do not wear the menstrual cup for more than 6 hours. 
• Clean your menstrual cup at least once a day with clear water and a gentle, fragrance-free soap or intimate wash.
• Sterilize the cup at the end or beginning of each cycle using boiling water or in the microwave. 
• Choose a menstrual cup that matches your flow and your body shape so it fits perfectly against your vaginal walls. That’s why we offer two sizes of the Louloucup: size M for heavier flow and size S for normal flow.
• Listen to your body to know if you have any possible symptoms.

LoulouCup takes care of your body 

The goal isn’t to ban menstrual cups, but to make sure women are aware of how to use them properly and the risks they can pose. 

The cup is a healthy, eco-friendly, and affordable alternative compared to regular and traditional tampons and pads. By following the tips above, your risk of toxic shock syndrome is very low. 

Each menstrual cup comes with a user manual here to support you.