When you think about period products, there’s probably one that comes to mind first. It was the sneaky star of many coming-of-age films and the center of vibrant commercials that made you ask, “Why doesn’t my period make me feel like doing cartwheels?” It was even teased as an emergency nosebleed fix (She’s the Man, anyone?).
That’s right—the tampon.
Approximately 52 to 86 percent of menstrual product users in the US opt for tampons. Worldwide, more than 100 million people across 120 countries use them as a part of their menstrual routine. But could they contain toxins? Helping to answer this question, the first study to measure heavy metals in tampons was published in August 2024.
The study
Researchers tested more than 30 tampons from 14 brands for 16 different heavy metals. The results? Although the amounts in the undisclosed brands varied, researchers found all 16 metals in various tampons—and every single tested tampon contained lead. Organic tampons, often viewed as a cleaner option, contained less lead but more arsenic.
Which metals?
The study evaluated tampons for the following metals: arsenic, barium, calcium, cadmium, cobalt, chromium, copper, iron, manganese, mercury, nickel, lead, selenium, strontium, vanadium, and zinc.
How does this happen?
There are a variety of ways these metals could get into tampons: water, air, or soil could contaminate raw materials like cotton before harvesting, the metals could be introduced—intentionally or unintentionally—during the manufacturing process, and so on. This makes it hard to pinpoint where the main issue lies, and how to prevent it.
The implications
Research has shown time and time again that exposure to heavy metals is harmful to the body. Some of the potential effects include increased risk of infertility, cancer, diabetes, and damage to the kidneys and liver. On top of that, if metals enter the body via the bloodstream through vaginal absorption, the liver won’t have a chance to filter out harmful properties.
However, the study notes that further research is needed to determine if toxic metals do, in fact, leach out of tampons and enter the bloodstream. Given this uncertainty, many tampon users may be left asking the same question: “Now what?”
What to do?
If you still choose to use tampons, go with certified organic options as your best bet for avoiding additional harmful substances, such as added fragrances and chemicals. Luckily, there are several alternative menstrual products to keep in mind as you weigh your options (bonus: these are more eco-friendly than disposable pads or tampons!).
Menstrual cups
A popular alternative, menstrual cups collect menstrual fluid through insertion into the vaginal canal. Often made of silicone or rubber, a menstrual cup can stay in place for up to 12 hours. One big perk is that it costs less than $40 and can last up to 10 years (yes, really!).
Menstrual discs
Like menstrual cups, menstrual discs are inserted into the vagina. They sit at the base of your cervix to collect fluid and can be worn for up to 12 hours (collecting an amount of fluid equivalent to that of two to three tampons!). Although some menstrual discs are disposable, there are many reusable options on the market today.
Reusable pads
Reusable cotton or cloth pads are a great alternative, as they sit inside underwear and can be washed and worn multiple times. They can typically be used for four to six hours at a time, depending on the brand and your flow.
Period underwear
This specially designed, reusable underwear contains layers of material (typically microfiber polyester) to hold menstrual fluid, much like a pad. Depending on the brand and your flow, you may be able to wear your pair for 12 hours (though some users recommend carrying a spare pair on heavier days). If properly taken care of, period underwear can be reused for approximately two years.
The takeaway
Keep your eyes peeled for further research on the implications of these heavy metals and feedback from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on the safety of tampons. Following this study, the FDA announced that it will conduct its own investigation into toxic metal exposure from tampons. In the meantime, it comes down to knowing your options and choosing the best one for you.
Makena Wardle is an editor and staff writer here at alive. She is passionate about people, the planet, and really yummy food.
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