Toxic Tampons

One product is recalled

Ever since they were introduced more than 40 years ago, tampons have been a liberating force for women, allowing them to wear more revealing clothing, to participate in such sports as swimming and generally to act more freely during menstruation. Now these products, used by 50 million women, have been linked to a sometimes fatal disorder called toxic-shock syndrome (TSS). Last week one of the more popular brands, Procter & Gamble's Rely, was recalled from the market. and the Food and Drug Administration issued a strong warning against its use.

First identified in Colorado two years ago, TSS is caused by an agent of the common Staphylococcus aureus bacterium, often found in abscesses. Since January the U.S. Center for Disease Control in Atlanta has recorded 344 cases, including 28 deaths. All but 16 of the cases involved menstruating women, usually under 30 years old. Suspicions were directed toward Rely after a study of 42 TSS patients showed that the brand had been used by 71% of the women.

The initial signs include high fever, diarrhea, vomiting and dizziness, followed by a sunburn-like rash with peeling of skin, especially on the hands and feet. There may also be a sharp drop in blood pressure and, in severe cases, fatal shock. The bacterium may be carried into the vagina during insertion of the absorbent pluglike devices. Rely may be doing its job all too well. It may be creating an ideal breeding ground for the staph bacterium.

Procter & Gamble insists that the case against its six-year-old product is far from proved. Says a company medical consultant: "Can you imagine a Government agency passing up the opportunity to scare the hell out of millions of women?" Even so, the Cincinnati-based firm ordered the product off the market, offering refunds to customers. That may not be enough. One TSS victim, Linda Imboden of Redding, Calif., who lost her hair and suffered crippling in her hands and toes, has already filed a $5 million suit against Procter & Gamble, claiming that it knew all along that Rely was hazardous. The company denies the charge.

To reduce the risk, federal health officials are suggesting that women not use tampons or use them only intermittently. Women may substitute sanitary napkins or washable natural sponges. If a woman suspects she has the disorder, she should stop using tampons and consult a doctor. Antibiotics to control the infection and fluids to reverse the effects of dehydration are the most crucial therapy. If treated early, most victims recover completely with no lasting disability.

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