Lauren Wasser’s life took a dramatic and heartbreaking turn when what seemed like a routine part of her monthly cycle resulted in a near-death experience and the loss of both her legs. While tampons are a trusted menstrual product for millions, Wasser’s story underscores the potential risks, even with proper usage.
Tampons are widely regarded as a convenient solution for menstruation, enabling users to go about their daily activities without disruption. However, as Wasser’s story reveals, it’s vital to understand not only the benefits but also the rare yet severe risks associated with their use.
At the age of 24, Lauren Wasser, a vibrant and healthy young woman, was meticulous about following the instructions provided on tampon packaging. She changed her tampons diligently every four hours, as recommended. Yet, her adherence to guidelines didn’t prevent a catastrophic outcome.
A Shocking Turn of Events
One seemingly ordinary day in 2012, Wasser began experiencing symptoms akin to the flu. Initially dismissing them as minor, she went about her day with friends. But her condition quickly worsened. Friends urged her to rest, but hours of silence prompted her mother to contact the police for a welfare check.
When officers arrived, they found Wasser in a concerning state but did not deem it an emergency. However, her body was already succumbing to a life-threatening condition. Alone in her apartment, she endured a 41.5°C (107°F) fever, confusion, and deteriorating health. Her loyal dog’s frantic attempts to alert her were the final signal of the severity of her condition.
A Race Against Time
Wasser was discovered unconscious, face down on the floor, just moments from death. Rushed to the hospital, her body was in a state of total collapse. Within hours, she suffered two heart attacks, kidney failure, and severe tissue damage. Doctors were baffled by how a healthy young woman could deteriorate so rapidly. They informed her parents that her chance of survival was less than 1%.
Further investigation revealed that Wasser had developed toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare but life-threatening condition. TSS is caused by a bacterial infection that can occur through tampon use, infected wounds, or other sources. The swift progression of TSS left irreversible damage, leading to the amputation of her right leg below the knee, parts of her left foot, and eventually her entire left leg in 2018.
Understanding Toxic Shock Syndrome
The NHS describes TSS as a severe, rapidly progressing condition that requires urgent medical attention. Though rare, it can affect anyone, with reports indicating approximately one in 100,000 menstruating individuals in the U.S. are impacted each year. Despite its rarity, the consequences can be devastating, as Wasser’s story highlights.
Common misconceptions link TSS solely to prolonged tampon use. However, Wasser’s experience disproves this, showing that even correct usage can pose risks. The Cleveland Clinic emphasizes that there’s no definitive timeline for when TSS symptoms may emerge, making awareness and vigilance critical.
Rising From the Ashes
Now 36 years old, Lauren Wasser has transformed her tragedy into a platform for advocacy and empowerment. Dubbed “the girl with the golden legs,” she has carved out a successful career as a model, walking for luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and gracing the pages of prestigious magazines, including Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar.
Wasser uses her platform to educate others about the dangers of TSS and the importance of menstrual health awareness. She stresses that no one is immune to the risks, urging individuals to engage in open conversations about safe menstrual practices.
“It’s my life mission to ensure this information reaches everyone,” Wasser shares. She highlights the importance of recognizing how menstrual products interact with the body during sensitive times. “We’re putting that inside us at such a delicate time. It creates the perfect storm for something lethal to happen.”
Spreading Knowledge and Encouraging Dialogue
Wasser’s message is clear: knowledge is power. She advocates for women to share their experiences, support one another, and remain vigilant about their health. Her shift to using only period pads reflects her commitment to safety, but her advocacy extends far beyond personal choices.
Through her courage and resilience, Lauren Wasser has turned unimaginable pain into a mission of hope and education. Her story is a stark reminder that awareness and dialogue can save lives.