Rely tampon
1978-1980
Procter & Gamble introduced this super absorbent tampon with the slogan “it even absorbs the worry”. Little did they know that their product would cause a whole lot more than just worry. Rely was made with a new highly absorbent material: carboxymethyl-cellulose and polyester. This was a failure of safety. Women were leaving tampons in for much longer periods of time, which could cause a deadly bacterial infection called: Toxic Shock Syndrome. Rely tampons became associated with death and illness, and were quickly discontinued.
Additional info:
TheAtlantic - History of the tampon
The New York Times - Rely Tampon Recalled by Maker; Linked to Toxic Shock Syndrome; Refunds Are Offered Rely Brand Tampons Recalled Advice on Reducing Risk Data Called 'Limited'
The Washington Post - Tampon Mystery