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

In 2015, American model Lauren Wasser brought media attention to her amputation. The images were shocking. Doctors had to amputate one of her legs because of toxic shock syndrome or TSS, which she developed. This blood poisoning, a very serious bacterial infection (staphylococcus aureus) caused by 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, as it was affected too. Once again, TSS made headlines. Although tampon leaflets mention this syndrome, very few women were truly aware of the real risks of TSS. Media coverage of this model’s story helped spark a debate about tampon composition and, more broadly, about disposable menstrual products, raising awareness and encouraging interest in gentler alternatives that are more respectful of both the environment and our health.

What about the risk of TSS with a cup? Can a 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 can you avoid menstrual toxic shock syndrome with a cup? What precautions should you take?

What is toxic shock syndrome?

Good to know

We have already discussed this in detail on the Louloucup blog, so we invite you to check out our dedicated article on this topic if you are particularly interested: What to remember about toxic shock syndrome?

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

A woman who carries the S. aureus bacteria and uses an internal period protection that collects blood (tampon or menstrual cup) incorrectly is at greater 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 find yourself in this situation.

Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome

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

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

Then, more severe symptoms may develop:

• low blood pressure,
• and a rapid heartbeat. 

These very diverse and non‑specific symptoms made diagnosis difficult for many years. If you experience fever and vomiting during your menstrual cycle, be sure to tell your doctors so they can examine you properly.

Link between menstrual cups and toxic shock syndrome

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

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

A cup for 4 to 6 hours maximum

Just like a tampon, the menstrual cup is an internal hygienic protection. It holds the blood in the same way. So, as with tampons, you must follow the brand’s recommendations.

At Louloucup, we strongly recommend changing, emptying and washing your cup every 4 to 6 hours maximum. We also advise against wearing a cup at night and instead recommend using heavy-flow period panties or very heavy-flow panties so you can sleep dry.

With the right habits, you greatly reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome. It’s therefore important to use your menstrual cup responsibly.

The Loulou cup, healthier for your body

While the risk of toxic shock remains very low, it’s important to point out that, in terms of composition, a menstrual cup is still a much better option than a tampon.

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

Tips to reduce the risk of toxic shock with a cup

Reminder: how to use your cup properly

A menstrual cup is perfectly 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 thoroughly with bar soap. As well as being committed to fighting period poverty, we care deeply about tackling global warming. So we recommend using bar 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 mild, fragrance-free soap or an intimate wash gel.
• Sterilise the cup at the end or start of each cycle in boiling water or in the microwave. 
• Choose a menstrual cup that suits your flow and morphology so that it fits perfectly to the vaginal walls. That's why we offer two sizes of Louloucup: size M for heavy flow and size S for normal flow.
• Listen to your body to identify any possible symptoms.

LoulouCup cares for your body 

The aim is not to ban menstrual cups, but to make sure women are aware of how to use them properly and of the risks they can carry. 

The cup is a healthy, eco-friendly and economical alternative to traditional and classic tampons and sanitary pads. By following the previously mentioned advice, you have very little risk of experiencing toxic shock syndrome. 

Each menstrual cup comes with a user guide to support you.