New Study Suggests That Menstrual Cups Can Increase The Risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome

Menstrual cups have had a bit of a makeover over the past few years. Those little silicone cups have gone from being something we’ve thought of as impractical and strange (and a bit scary) to a product that more women would consider using during their periods.

It’s no wonder why either. Despite concerns about convenience (like ‘how do you take it out in a public toilet without spilling blood everywhere?’), menstrual cups have been marketed (with success) as the eco-friendly and affordable alternative to tampons and sanitary pads.

So, this new study might change things. According to a new study published last week by the journal of Applied and Environmental Microbiology, it’s been suggested that menstrual cups can potentially increase the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS). The rare but serious condition can cause diarrhoea, fainting, fever and dizziness amongst other symptoms.

Researchers in France looked at 15 different types of menstrual cups and tampons and from their findings concluded that menstrual cups increase the potential growth of staphylococcus aureus, a bacteria that is linked to TSS. The reason for this is the size and shape of the menstrual cup. When inserted, the cup pushes more air into the vagina, which could potentially promote growth of the bacteria. According to the study, the bacterial growth can still be found on the cup even it’s been washed multiple times.

It’s not all bad though. The study offered information from their findings on how to best avoid risk of TSS. One way being to buy a second menstrual cup to use whilst sterilising the other, instead of simply using one. The study also suggests it might also be worth using a smaller menstrual cup to limit the amount of air entering the vagina, also decreasing the risk of bacterial infection.

MORE: 18 Stock Images That Show What It's Really Like On Your Period

This article originally appeared on The Debrief.