When selecting period products, there are various things to keep an eye out for. Certain ingredients like rayon and synthetic dyes have been linked with serious health consequences while dioxins and PFAS may pose environmental threats.
Search for organic pads and tampons with third party certification, while avoiding products scented with chlorine bleach, fragrances, chemical additives or dyes.
Organic cotton
Consumers have historically had limited visibility into what is contained within pads and tampons; but thanks to a new law in New York state that requires manufacturers to disclose all ingredients and additives used, you now have an opportunity to take an in-depth look into your products’ contents.
Organic tampons typically utilize certified organic cotton and do not utilize chlorine bleaching, fragrances or dyes in their production process. Furthermore, most use paper- or plant-based plastic applicators instead.
Organic tampons have garnered much media coverage recently; however, no scientific proof suggests they are less likely to cause toxic shock syndrome (TSS). Even though organic options contain lower levels of heavy metals than their conventional counterparts do, polymers such as phthalates and rayon still contain polymers which make extraction of vaginal fluid difficult according to Dr Alex Polyakov from University of Adelaide Gynaecology Department.
No synthetics
Although conventional pads and tampons appear to be made from cotton, many contain synthetic materials like polyester (which is actually plastic) interwoven into their bodies, leak-proof polypropylene lining the backsides, as well as plastic applicators.
Conventional products often use chlorine bleaching processes that leave behind contaminants like dioxins and furans – known endocrine disruptors linked to cancer, fertility problems and changes in bone density.
Additionally, conventional tampons often utilize superabsorbent polymers containing titanium dioxide which has been linked with toxic shock syndrome. Therefore, organic tampons that are free of synthetics and potentially hazardous ingredients should be selected; additionally look for options with different absorbency levels that fit with your flow rate.
No phthalates
Tampons, panty liners and pads often contain synthetic materials made with semi-synthetic ingredients such as rayon made of viscose derived from cellulose (or viscose). When processed using toxic chemicals like 1,4 dioxane or ethylene oxide they often leave harmful contaminants behind that wouldn’t be listed on an ingredient list as processing residues – these contaminants would simply be considered processing residues and not listed.
Research has linked phthalates with various health implications, such as endocrine disruption and toxicity; however, both Dr Musgrave and Dr Polyakov argue that low levels of phthalates found in tampons do not likely pose health risks associated with TSS or any other health concerns.
Organic tampons are free from dyes and colors as well as synthetic pesticides such as phenols. But contrary to popular belief, using an organic tampon doesn’t reduce your risk of TSS; rather it can help keep symptoms at bay by following basic safety rules such as wearing breathable underwear and swapping out pads/tampons every 8 hours.
No BPA
BPA has long been linked to numerous health concerns, including infertility. Yet it still finds its way into some period products; according to University of Adelaide molecular pharmacologist Ian Musgrave, its presence may have no lasting detrimental impact due to low levels that leak from tampons.
Some tampons contain plastics such as polyester and polyethylene that release chemicals known as endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs). When selecting organic tampons with no applicators or brands that have received third party verification of safety certification such as Made Safe labels.
Pads and panty liners may contain EDCs that come into direct contact with vaginal and vulval skin, so consider purchasing organic versions from brands with extensive ingredient listings on their websites, or those offering third-party certification such as Natracare or Lola.
No plastic applicators
Plastic applicators in tampons must be avoided whenever possible; organic cotton ones are best. When selecting an organic cotton tampon, make sure it has third-party certification such as GOTS, Oeko-Tex Standard 100 or Made Safe to guarantee they truly meet organic criteria.
Plastics such as polyester, polyethylene and BPA leach into skin tissue and pose environmental harm. Their chemical compounds may act as endocrine disruptors and contribute to toxic shock syndrome (TSS), an illness with symptoms including fever, vomiting and dizziness.
TSS can be avoided by selecting the lowest absorbency level suitable for your flow and changing them every 4-8 hours, as well as not using them overnight. You should read tampon labels carefully when purchasing one; choose one with cardboard or paper applicators instead of plastic; also ensure it’s BPA-free.
