What is Toxic Shock Syndrome or TSS?

Tampons are associated with Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). TSS is a rare but serious disease that may cause death. Please consult the product insert inside your o.b.^® Tampons box for further information.

Reducing your risk of TSS:

You can avoid any possible risk of getting tampon-associated TSS by not using tampons.

You can reduce the risk of developing TSS during your period by alternating tampons with period pads.

There are scientific studies which have concluded that higher absorbency tampons increase the risk of TSS. You should select the minimum absorbency needed to control your flow to reduce the risk of developing TSS.

Tampons are available in a range of absorbencies: Light Absorbency (less than 6 grams), Regular Absorbency (6-9 grams), Super Absorbency (9-12 grams), Super Plus Absorbency (12-15 grams) and Ultra Absorbency (15-18 grams). Each absorbency range represents the grams of fluid that can be absorbed by all manufacturers' tampons based on a standardized laboratory test. Use this information to compare the absorbency of o.b.^® tampons to other brands.

If you have had warning signs of TSS in the past, you should check with your doctor before using tampons again.

Consult your doctor if you have any questions about tampon use and TSS.

Why we're sharing this information:

Health Canada offers detailed guidance to tampon manufacturers on labeling standards for tampons to ensure consumer safety, particularly concerning Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). o.b. is committed to following Health Canada labeling guidance.

The guidance states all tampon labels must prominently display a warning about the risk of TSS. This information should be clearly visible, easy to read, and educate consumers about the symptoms of TSS, its association with tampon use, and steps to minimize the risk. The information provided should help consumers make informed choices about the safe use of tampons. These guidelines are part of Health Canada's broader effort to protect consumers by ensuring that they are fully informed about the risks of TSS and how to minimize those risks when using tampons.

To learn more, please visit Health Canada’s page on tampons.