Prolonged use of sanitary pads may result in fever and toxic shock syndrome, cautions expert

Dr. Deborah Osisanwo, a medical practitioner, has emphasized the importance of maintaining good menstrual hygiene and advised women not to use sanitary pads for more than six hours to avoid the risk of rashes and vaginal yeast infections.

Dr. Osisanwo warned that using sanitary pads for more than eight hours may lead to a condition called toxic shock syndrome, which is caused by certain strains of bacteria that release toxins into the bloodstream, potentially causing severe organ damage or death, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

During an interview with PUNCH Healthwise, Dr. Osisanwo explained that women who exceed the recommended time limit for pad usage may experience fever and, in some cases, shock if the condition is not properly managed.

As the National Committee Chairman on Menstrual Hygiene, Dr. Osisanwo emphasized that it is advisable to change sanitary pads every six hours, regardless of the flow of blood. She explained that failure to change pads regularly allows microorganisms to grow on the pads, increasing the risk of infection. The blood on the pad provides a conducive environment for the growth of organisms, which can then move from the pad into the vagina and cervix, causing serious health problems.

Dr. Osisanwo stressed the importance of menstrual hygiene for women and their overall well-being. She cautioned against using sanitary pads or other materials for extended periods, as it may lead to toxic shock syndrome. She shared an example of a case where a student used a tampon for 48 hours, leading to a severe fever and illness due to the decaying tampon.

The physician expressed concern about poor menstrual hygiene practices in rural communities, where women often use improvised materials such as wrappers or cut pieces of cloth. These materials may not be properly cleaned, increasing the risk of infection. Additionally, some rural areas may lack access to clean water for maintaining personal hygiene during menstruation.

Dr. Osisanwo advised women to bathe regularly while menstruating and to clean themselves properly after removing a sanitary pad. Using clean water is crucial to avoid introducing harmful microorganisms into the body. Proper hygiene is essential not only for personal well-being but also to prevent the spread of infections to others, especially when preparing food for the family.

In conclusion, Dr. Osisanwo stressed the importance of maintaining good menstrual hygiene by changing sanitary pads regularly, practicing proper cleaning methods, and using clean water. These practices are vital for women's health and the well-being of their communities.