Lauren Wasser, a model and activist from Santa Monica, California, tragically lost both her legs due to Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) after using tampons as directed. In 2012, her life changed forever after a routine part of her menstrual cycle turned into a near-death experience. Now, she is sounding the alarm for all women and menstruating individuals about the dangers of TSS, even when tampons are used properly.
What Happened to Lauren Wasser?
Back in 2012, Lauren Wasser was 24 years old and following all the rules about tampon use. She changed her tampon every four hours, just like the packaging advised. But one day, she started to feel unwell, experiencing flu-like symptoms and a fever. Initially, she didn’t think much of it, but within hours, her condition deteriorated rapidly.
Wasser was rushed to the hospital, where doctors found she had suffered two heart attacks, kidney failure, and her tissues were beginning to decay. She was diagnosed with Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), a rare but potentially fatal condition caused by an excess of bacteria entering the bloodstream. To save her life, doctors had no choice but to amputate her right leg and parts of her left foot. Six years later, she lost her left leg as well due to complications from the infection.
What is Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)?
Toxic Shock Syndrome is an acute and severe illness caused by the buildup of staphylococcus aureus bacteria, commonly found in the body. According to the National Library of Medicine, TSS symptoms include high fever, low blood pressure (hypotension), a sunburn-like rash, and damage to vital organs. If not treated promptly, TSS can escalate to life-threatening levels, leading to amputation, organ failure, or death.
Can TSS Happen Even If You Use Tampons Correctly?
One of the most startling aspects of Wasser’s story is that she followed the tampon usage guidelines correctly, yet still developed TSS. This debunks the common misconception that only improper tampon use, such as leaving it in for too long, can cause TSS.
In an interview on the podcast Life Uncut, Wasser shared, “People think they’re invincible, no one is off-limits, TSS can happen to anyone at any time.” This statement rings especially true for those who assume that adhering to the instructions on tampon packaging will fully protect them from this dangerous illness.
Are Tampons Safe to Use?
Wasser has been outspoken about the potential dangers posed by tampons and other menstrual products, citing concerns over the chemicals used in their production. “Many of the products on the market are full of bleach, dioxin, and chlorine. They’re labeled as 100 percent cotton but are still sprayed with pesticides,” she explained.
According to Wasser, these toxins can create a “perfect storm” when placed inside the body during menstruation. The combination of a foreign substance and the sensitive environment of the body during a menstrual cycle can provide a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. In Wasser’s case, it was this perfect storm that led to TSS and the subsequent loss of both her legs.
Changing the Conversation Around Menstrual Health
Since her life-altering experience, Wasser has dedicated herself to spreading awareness about TSS and menstrual health. She believes it’s critical for women to have open conversations about the products they use and to be informed about the risks associated with tampons and other menstrual products.
“It’s my goal and life mission to make sure that this information is out there,” Wasser shared. She urges women to be vigilant and check in with each other, fostering a culture of transparency and education around menstruation.
Wasser isn’t advocating for any particular course of action but rather wants to equip women with the knowledge to make informed choices. She highlights that TSS doesn’t discriminate—it can occur from using tampons, menstrual cups, or even from an infected wound. “There’s nothing on the market that’s 100 percent safe, and that’s what I fight for,” she added.
Avoid Tampons When You’re Sick
One of Wasser’s most crucial pieces of advice is to avoid using tampons if you’re feeling under the weather. “If you’re sick, don’t ever use tampons,” she warned. When the body is already fighting off an illness like the flu, it’s more vulnerable to infections, including TSS. In such cases, she recommends using pads instead, as they don’t come into direct contact with the body’s internal environment.
“If you’re sick, your body can’t fight two things at the same time,” she explained. While pads still carry some risk, she believes they are a safer alternative when dealing with illness.
Educating First Responders and the Public About TSS
In addition to raising awareness among women, Wasser also stresses the importance of educating medical professionals and first responders about TSS. Early symptoms of TSS often resemble common infections or illnesses, making it difficult to diagnose initially. By educating those on the front lines, Wasser hopes to improve early detection and treatment, potentially saving lives.
Conclusion: Knowledge is Power When It Comes to Menstrual Health
Lauren Wasser’s heartbreaking story serves as a stark reminder that even those who use tampons correctly can fall victim to Toxic Shock Syndrome. Her journey from near death to becoming an advocate for menstrual health has helped bring much-needed attention to the hidden risks associated with tampons and other menstrual products.
Her message is clear: be informed, stay vigilant, and never assume you’re invincible when it comes to your health. By having open conversations about TSS and other menstrual health issues, we can help ensure that no one else has to endure what Wasser went through. In the end, knowledge is the most powerful tool we have.
