Truth behind what happens if you sleep with a tampon in as many women question safety

Women have often wondered if you should ever really sleep in a tampon, and the truth has finally been revealed.

Myths and periods are pretty synonymous - there's an endless list things of things we think we can't do, which actually just happens to be BS.

If you're a loyal tampon wearer, switching to a pad or a menstrual cup at night time can sometimes be a bit uncomfortable. The thought of having to faff with a different method just feels slightly annoying - as if that time of the month isn't already irritating enough.

So, the question has long circulated whether we should really be wearing tampons to bed, and the answer may actually surprise you.

Should we sleep with a tampon in? (Getty Stock Image)

Should you sleep with a tampon in?

It can actually be dependant on the amount of time you sleep for.

For the most part, sleeping with a tampon in - whilst there are safety risks - should be absolutely fine.

According to Healthline, if you sleep for eight hours or less, having a tampon in overnight should cause you no stress at all. However, longer than this, and you could be putting yourself at risk of a rare but fatal condition.

What are the dangers?

If you have a tampon in for longer than eight hours, you may start to experience symptoms of toxic shock syndrome (TSS).

Experts recommend changing your tampon every four-eight hours to avoid this, as well as using the lowest absorbency possible for your flow.

Specialists still aren't entirely sure why tampons can cause TSS, but a theory is that is attracts bacteria due to the moist and warm environment.

How long you sleep for is an important factor (Getty Stock Images)

What are the symptoms?

TTS can have similar symptoms to the flu, which is not commonly known. The list includes:

• Fever
• Headaches
• Muscle aches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness and disorientation
• Sore throat
• Rashes or sunburn-like marks on your skin
• Low blood pressure
• Eye redness, resembling conjunctivitis
• Redness and inflammation in your mouth and throat
• Peeling of skin on the soles of your feet and palms of your hands
• Seizures

The condition, whilst rare, is considered a medical emergency if you think you may be suffering.

When to use an alternative product?

If you're a particularly long snoozer, it's recommended not to use tampons at night.

Whilst a menstrual cup might take some getting used to, they are generally safe and effective for up to 12 hours. Or if all else fails, sanitary pads