Have you ever wondered what’s in the products you use when you’re on your period? Are they safe?
Most of us just grab them off the shelf or order them online without a second thought. However, a study published in June 2024 found 16 different metals – including arsenic, lead, mercury, and cadmium – in 30 types of tampons across 14 period product brands sold in the U.S. and the U.K. This includes big names like Tampax, Kotex, and Playtex. If you are part of the 50-80% of menstruating people that use tampons, read on to learn more.
How Did the Metals Get There?
Tampons are made of cotton, rayon, and viscose, ingredients that are sourced from natural plants. Though it is unclear exactly where the metals come from, these materials can absorb metals from the soil when they grow, which then might remain during tampon production. In addition, they could come from the production and manufacturing process.
What Does This Mean for You?
There is no clear evidence that these metal traces are causing negative health effects. However, metals can threaten our health by increasing risks of dementia, infertility, cancer, and damage to the brain, liver, or kidneys. This is especially concerning if you are pregnant, as metals can also harm both maternal and fetal health. Metal exposure from vaginal products also could be more dangerous because the skin of the vagina is sensitive and can absorb chemicals more easily than elsewhere in the body.
Other Toxins in Period Products
Metals are not the first contaminant found in period products. Past research has found PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), in tampons, pads, panty liners, and period underwear. PFAs are man-made chemicals used in a lot of different industries, they don’t break down in the environment, and can accumulate in your body over time. As a result, they are called “forever chemicals,” and are linked to cancer, kidney damage, and a weakened immune system. Unfortunately, PFAs also are commonly found in other products, food, and drinking water.
Due to the history of racial segregation and systemic inequities, our communities already are at a greater risk for exposure to toxic chemicals. This is because sources of PFAs and other toxic pollutants (including industrial facilities and Superfund sites airports, military bases, and landfills) are more likely to be placed near our neighborhoods. In fact, Black Americans are 75% more likely to live near waste-producing facilities than the average American. Considering higher risks of exposure we should try to prevent what exposure we can from other sources.
What Are Some Alternatives?
Consider these alternatives next time you’re in the feminine products aisle:
- Menstrual cups and discs: These reusable cups are made of silicone, latex, or rubber and collect menstrual blood rather than absorbing it.
- Reusable cloth pads: Made from natural fabrics, these pads are a comfortable option that absorb menstrual blood and can be washed, dried, and used again.
- *Organic pads: These pads are less likely to contain harmful chemicals and are a popular alternative that absorb menstrual blood. However, studies have found some to be contaminated by PFAs.
- *Period underwear: Growing in popularity recently, these are reusable underwear that absorb menstrual blood. However, testing has revealed that some brands contain high levels of PFAs. Better Goods (an independent organization that analyzes the ingredients in beauty and personal care for safety) has researched period underwear and found 14 brands without PFAs. You can read the Better Goods article here.
You have the power to make better choices for managing your menstrual health. Share this information with your friends and family to keep them informed. Remember that Health Knowledge is a Superpower!™
See the sources for this article here.