Tampons: What’s Really in Them?
Tampons are an essential product for millions around the world, yet there’s surprisingly little research on their long-term safety. We trust these products to keep us clean and safe, but have we ever considered what’s actually in them? Studies suggest that tampons may expose us to harmful chemicals and metals, posing risks we rarely discuss. It’s a conversation that needs to happen.
Most tampons are made from cotton, rayon, or a blend of both, which sounds simple. However, the manufacturing process often introduces contamination. For example, cotton used in tampons can absorb heavy metals like cadmium, lead, and mercury if grown in polluted soils (Shearston et al., 2024). One study found that tampons contain all 16 metals tested, including lead and cadmium (Shearston et al., 2024). Since vaginal tissue is highly absorbent, any substances in tampons can enter our bloodstream, bypassing the liver’s detoxification process—a route called "first-pass metabolism" (Kim and De Jesus, 2022).
In simple terms, any chemicals or metals in tampons could directly impact our bodies, a point underscored by the widespread exposure due to tampon use: studies indicate that 52-86% of menstruators in the U.S. use tampons (Dodson et al., 2021).
The Link Between Tampons and Oxidative Stress
Oxidative stress happens when there’s an imbalance between free radicals (unstable molecules) and antioxidants in our bodies. This imbalance leads to cellular damage and has been associated with aging, chronic diseases, and cancers. A 2019 study observed that tampon users had 5% higher levels of isoprostane, a biomarker indicating oxidative stress, compared to those using alternative menstrual products (Singh et al., 2019).
While these findings aren’t definitive, they suggest potential long-term health implications. Elevated oxidative stress can damage cell structures, DNA, and proteins, potentially leading to hormonal disturbances, reproductive health issues, and an increased cancer risk. For some, concerns over such risks have led them to explore alternatives, like menstrual cups or organic tampons, which may reduce exposure to synthetic chemicals.
Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) and Its Risks
Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is a serious and sometimes life-threatening condition caused by toxins from the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Tampons, especially if left in too long, create an ideal environment for bacterial growth. Symptoms of TSS include high fever, rash, vomiting, and, in severe cases, organ failure. The historical link between TSS and tampons highlights the need for safety; the illness gained significant attention in the 1980s and is still a concern today. Despite the risks, tampon manufacturers aren’t required to disclose all the chemicals in their products (Hochwalt et al., 2023). For a product many use for decades, this lack of transparency is troubling.
Choosing Alternatives
With growing concerns about the safety of tampons, many menstruators are choosing alternatives. For instance, menstrual cups, organic cotton tampons, and period underwear are becoming more popular. Some users have reported reduced irritation and fewer infections after switching to these options. These alternatives are particularly appealing to those with sensitive skin or conditions like endometriosis, where additional irritation can be especially painful. The shift toward these options signals a desire for safer, more transparent menstrual products.
Let’s Demand Answers
Menstrual health remains an overlooked area of public health, even though it affects over half the global population. Globally, over 500 million menstruators lack access to safe menstrual products, a reality that exacerbates health disparities and social inequalities (Lancet, 2022). Regulatory gaps mean that tampon manufacturers can avoid disclosing the full list of ingredients, leaving consumers in the dark.
To truly prioritize menstrual health, we need transparency, better regulation, and more comprehensive research on the safety of these products. Menstrual health is a fundamental human right, and we deserve products that are safe, affordable, and transparent.
It’s time to make menstrual health a priority. We have a right to know exactly what we’re putting into our bodies and to demand safer, healthier alternatives. Let’s work together to raise awareness, push for more research, and advocate for stronger regulations.
References
Shearston, J.A., et al. "Tampons as a Source of Exposure to Metal(loid)s." Environment International, 2024. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envint.2024.108849.
Singh, J., et al. "Tampon Use, Environmental Chemicals and Oxidative Stress in the BioCycle Study." Environmental Health, 2019. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12940-019-0452-z.
Hochwalt, A.E., et al. "The Safety Assessment of Tampons: Illustration of a Comprehensive Approach for Four Different Products." Frontiers in Reproductive Health, 2023. https://doi.org/10.3389/frph.2023.1167868.
Lancet Editorial. "Menstrual Health: A Neglected Public Health Problem." The Lancet Regional Health, 2022. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lana.2022.100399.