Is using tampons bad?

[Akasha]

I've been using tampons during summer and recently my mother found out and gave me a lecture that it can devirginize a person which I think is pretty silly anyway. Is it bad to use them and can they perforate the hymen?

[Ira]

Tampons do not make you lose your hymen. As it absorbs and expands inside the vaginal canal, it molds its shape to fit into the canal without tearing up the hymen.

The only thing bad about using tampons is its association with Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). TSS is a potentially fatal diseased caused by Staphylococcus aureus, which produce toxins. For reasons still unclear, it is most likely to attack women using tampons during their menstrual period. But it can also occur in non-menstruating women, and, rarely, in men. Tampons aren't the cause of TSS. Its bacterial source has never been found in packaged tampons. However, the improper use of tampons (esp. the high-aborbency ones--they are fertile breeding ground for bacteria) seems to create conditions that encourage the production of the toxins. To prevent TSS, 1.) use the lowest-absorbency tampon that works for you. 2.) Replace tampons frequently, every 4-6 hours. 3.) Don't use tampons overnight. Switch to pads if you're going to sleep. 4.) Alternate tampons with sanitary napkins during a menstrual period. 4.) Be careful when inserting the tampon to avoid scratching or irritating the vaginal wall. 5.) Wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling the tampon.