If you sleep fewer than eight hours per night, it may be safe to sleep with a tampon in. However, if your sleep lasts longer, it is not recommended. The FDA advises changing tampons every four to eight hours to reduce the risk of infection or toxic shock syndrome (TSS).1 Tampons must be changed regularly because the longer they stay inside the body, the higher the chance of bacterial growth.

tampons must be changed regularly
Tampons are convenient and widely used, but they require proper timing. Leaving a tampon inside too long allows bacteria to multiply, which increases the risk of complications. Understanding when you can safely sleep with a tampon helps protect your menstrual health.

How Long Can You Safely Wear A Tampon?

Most people can comfortably wear a tampon for four to six hours. Procter & Gamble recommends never keeping a tampon in for more than eight hours.2 If your flow is heavy, you may need to change it more frequently.

how to choose the right size

  • If your tampon becomes soaked in less than four hours, choose a higher absorbency size.

  • If the tampon is still dry after six hours, switch to a lower absorbency to prevent irritation.

  • On average, people use three to six tampons per day during menstruation.3

Changing your tampon at the proper interval can prevent discomfort, odor, and infection.

Is It Safe To Leave A Tampon In Overnight?

Yes—if you sleep for eight hours or less. The eight-hour rule applies regardless of whether it is daytime or nighttime. If your nightly sleep is around seven hours, a tampon is safe.

alternatives for long sleep
If you sleep longer than eight hours, choose:

  • overnight pads

  • menstrual cups

  • period underwear

Always remember to remove your tampon immediately upon waking.

What Is Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)?

TSS is a rare but serious bacterial infection linked to wearing tampons for too long.4 It occurs when certain bacteria release toxins into the bloodstream.

symptoms of tss

  • rash that looks like a sunburn

  • high fever or chills

  • nausea or vomiting

  • diarrhea

  • dizziness or confusion

  • muscle aches

  • low blood pressure

  • redness of the eyes, mouth, or throat

  • seizures

  • possible organ failure

Although TSS cases linked to tampons are very rare (about 1 in 100,000), the risk increases significantly when tampons are left in longer than recommended.5

Factors That Affect Rates Of TSS

In the 1980s, the CDC noted an increase in TSS linked to super-absorbent tampons, especially Rely tampons by Procter & Gamble.6 These older tampons used synthetic fibers—such as carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and polyester—that increased bacterial growth.7

safety changes since the 1980s

  • In 1989, the FDA required standardized absorbency labels and clear usage instructions.8

  • Manufacturers stopped using high-risk synthetic fibers.9

  • Modern tampons are made primarily of cotton, rayon, or blends, making them much safer.1

Even so, safe usage practices remain crucial.

When To See A Healthcare Provider

You should seek medical help if you accidentally leave a tampon in for more than eight hours and experience symptoms like fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or confusion. These may be early signs of TSS.

seek help for tampon-related concerns
Contact a healthcare professional if you:

  • frequently forget to remove tampons

  • experience recurring discomfort or pain during tampon use

  • have unusual odor, discharge, or symptoms after long tampon wear

Timely medical care can prevent complications.