Model Lauren Wasser has issued an urgent warning to all tampon users worldwide after a terrifying experience. Lauren, then 24 years old, went through a potentially fatal situation in 2012 after following the directions on tampon use. During her period, she changed them every four hours, but all of a sudden, she developed a high fever and flu-like symptoms. She was nearly dead from two heart attacks, kidney failure, and tissue degradation when she was rushed to the hospital.
Doctors diagnosed Lauren with Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). It is a rare but severe condition caused by an excess of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria in the body. Contrary to common belief, TSS can occur even when using tampons correctly, as Lauren emphasizes. The condition, characterized by fever, hypotension, rash, and organ damage, can quickly become life-threatening if not promptly treated.
Lauren's mission now is to raise awareness about the risks associated with menstrual products. She highlights the potential risks that could be involved in many tampons and menstrual cups, which may contain bleach, dioxin, and pesticides. Despite being marketed as safe, these products can lead to TSS, creating a deadly combination within the body.
Reflecting on her own traumatic experience, Lauren emphasizes the importance of education and dialogue among women regarding menstrual health. She urges individuals to be vigilant about the products they use, advocating for transparency and informed decision-making. Moreover, she dispels misconceptions about TSS, noting that it can occur even with proper tampon usage and that the eight-hour rule is not definitive.
Since her experience, Lauren has shifted her focus to advocating for safer menstrual products and promoting open discussions about menstrual health. She encourages individuals to prioritize their well-being by being informed and vigilant, particularly when feeling unwell. For Lauren, using pads instead of tampons during menstruation is a precautionary measure to avoid aggravated health complications.
Lauren lost both of her legs due to TSS, but she continued on with courage. She wants to use her experience to start important conversations about menstrual hygiene and product safety, as well as to prevent others from suffering through what she did.
(Input from various media sources)
(Rehash/ Susmita Bhandary/MSM)
