A study conducted by researchers at the UC Berkeley School of Public Health identified the presence of 16 different heavy metals in tampons from 14 different brands purchased in the U.S. and the U.K. The contamination of soil within the agricultural industry by toxic heavy metals is currently a large issue, as these metals can leach into the plants used to make tampons. Despite this, tampons are generally considered safe and healthy menstrual products, with most being made from cotton and/or rayon. However, women who use tampons may increase their risk for toxic shock syndrome if they use them incorrectly or leave them in longer than recommended.
The study evaluated levels of heavy metals in 30 tampons from 14 tampon brands and found measurable concentrations of all 16 heavy metals tested for. Lead was found in 100% of the tampons tested, which surprised researchers. Non-organic tampons were found to have the highest concentration of lead, while organic tampons had the highest amount of arsenic. The study did not find any specific category of tampons that consistently had lower amounts of all or most metals. Researchers emphasized the importance of continuing to study tampons and menstrual products to understand which metals can leach out of the tampons.
Consumers should reach out to their favorite tampon brands to see if they conduct testing for toxic metals in their tampons. It is recommended to select tampons that have the lowest levels of toxic metals and harmful chemicals. Readers are advised to understand the consistency of the study’s results, as metals were present in all the tampons tested regardless of brand, organic or non-organic, name brand, or store brand. Alternative menstrual products such as pads, menstrual underwear, or menstrual cups may also be considered, though these categories can also contain harmful additives like PFAS.
Dr. Sherry Ross, a board-certified OB/GYN, emphasized the need for transparency regarding the health risks associated with feminine hygiene products. Women should be able to make informed decisions regarding their health based on reliable medical research. More research is needed to determine safe levels of metals in tampons and to understand how these metals may affect the body. Dr. Lydia Jahl also stressed the importance of conducting research into how to make tampons without toxic metals and harmful additives, while also calling for tampon manufacturers to develop safer guidelines for everyday use by consumers.
In conclusion, the study highlights the presence of heavy metals in tampons and the potential health risks associated with their use. Consumers are encouraged to reach out to tampon brands for information on toxic metal testing and to select products with lower levels of harmful chemicals. Further research is needed to understand the impact of these metals on the body and to develop safer alternatives for menstrual products. Overall, the study underscores the importance of ongoing research and transparency in the production of feminine hygiene products for the health and well-being of individuals.
