Statement of the Polish Gynecological Society Expert Group on the use of ellen (R) probiotic tampon

The group of experts representing the Polish Gynecologic Society has issued this Statement based on the review of available literature on the potential benefits of the use of ellen (R) probiotic tampon. It has been firmly proven that during menstrual bleeding the vaginal flora undergoes profound changes prodisposing to both bacterial and fungal infections. Safety of menstrual tampons has been studied for over 60 years. According to the current state of knowledge, the use of tampons does not lead to any clinically significant change in the vaginal flora. The link between tampon use and Toxic Shock Syndrome (TTS) was revealed in 1978 after introduction of superabsorbent tampons to the United States market. Following the replacement of carboxymethylcellulose and polyester based tampons by the new generation of cotton based tampons, cases of tampon connected TSS are extremely rare in the US. The proper use of modern tampons is considered to be safe. Ellen (R) tampon features dioxin and chlorine free natural fibres treated with the acidic acid producing probiotic Lacto Naturel (LN (R)), which contains a combination of patented benevolent bacteria that can strengthen women's defense against vaginal infections. Both in vivo and in vitro studied have shown that ellen (R) pro biotic tampons are able to succesfully colonize vagina with the LN (R) probiotic bacteria which then coexist with endogenous Lactobacilli present in the patient's vaginal ecosystem. The ellen (R) probiotic tampon constitutes an innovative solution of the vaginal probiotic application during menses. The use of this product is aimed to maintain natural vaginal flora as well as its pH during menstrual bleeding. According to the available clinical data, the potential benefits of the probiotic tampon use include: - prevention of the vaginal/vulval discomfort as a result of frequent swimming poll use - maintaning of the therapeutic effect of antibacterial/antifungal vaginal treatment and prevention of the recurrent infections - prevention of iatrogenic vaginal flora imbalance after an antibiotic treatment