For many women of menstruating age, tampons are not just a useful thing to have around, but a necessity. Though far from perfect, they have allowed women to prevent leakage from their periods for years. But what exactly are they doing to a woman's body once they go in?
In the video above by DNews, the site explains what happens to your body when you insert a tampon — and perhaps more significantly, where the risk for toxic shock syndrome (TSS) comes from. While rare, this complication from streptococcus bacteria is most associated with super absorbent tampons, according to the Mayo Clinic.
To maximize your safety, Health Canada recommends using the lowest absorbency tampon, as well as making sure to wash your hands before and after insertion, alternating with other products like pads, and never using a tampon before your period starts.
There are, of course, other options for menstrual products, including menstrual cups and plain old pads, but since it doesn't seem likely women will be giving up tampons anytime soon, you may as well discover just what they're doing in there.
Also on HuffPost
