Organic tampons may still contain harmful chemicals like phthalates and bisphenols that have been linked to harmful side effects. To make sure they’re free of these contaminants, look for third-party certifications like GOTS or B Corp status to verify they meet this standard.
Keep in mind, however, that tampon absorbency level and frequency of use are also major influences in TSS risk. Dr Montes advises checking labels frequently and changing tampons every four to six hours.
Organic
Organic tampons typically feature an organic cotton core grown without pesticides and certified as 100% biodegradable by GOTS certification. Furthermore, some brands such as Cora offer donated period products when you purchase one of their organic tampons.
Regular tampons often contain synthetic materials not designed to absorb menstrual blood, such as polyester, rayon and plastics such as polypropylene and polyester-polyethylene blends. A few chemicals (like carbon disulfide and bisphenols like BPA) may pose health concerns in higher doses.
Medical experts emphasize that tampons don’t contain enough of these substances for them to have any noticeable impact on our bodies in such small amounts; both molecular pharmacologist Ian Musgrave and gynaecologist Alex Polyakov state this fact as evidence against claims regarding hormone disrupting chemicals found in tampons being “unsubstantiated fears and scaremongering.”
Biodegradable
As many of us would rather avoid injecting chemicals and materials into our vaginas every month, biodegradable tampons are an eco-friendly choice. They’re made from plant-based materials that biodegrade under composting conditions – just remember not to flush tampons down the toilet – otherwise this could cause blockages that flood homes and gardens! TOTM’s option fulfills every green criteria with organic biodegradable cotton material, cardboard applicator and recycled paper packaging all making up one eco-friendly package plus 10% of profits will go towards projects helping combat period poverty projects!
Natracare organic tampons share their green credentials by using only organic cotton from sustainable sources.
Applicator-Free
Many companies now offer applicator-free tampons, which may make insertion easier for some women. But it may require practice to find an efficient method of inserting one without an applicator – and others prefer this type of protection for daily period protection.
The FDA doesn’t mandate organic cotton tampons, though some brands and certification bodies do. One example of a potential contaminant found during bleaching can produce carbon disulfide which has the potential to create dioxin contamination and should therefore be checked thoroughly by them before being added to their products.
No matter if you choose organic or conventional tampons, changing them every four to eight hours and selecting the lowest absorbency level possible for your flow can significantly lower the risk of TSS. Menstrual cups or discs are another effective way to circumvent TSS altogether, although they won’t protect against leakage as much. For extra peace of mind look for products certified GOTS free of harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates.
Lightweight
Traditional tampons contain chemicals like phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA) and fragrance that have been linked with potential endocrine disruption at high doses. Furthermore, these chemicals can leach out into vaginal tissue where they’re then absorbed into the body. A 2019 law that mandates manufacturers list ingredients on labels gave women more insight into what’s inside their tampons; however advocates claim the disclosure doesn’t go far enough.
Research has yet to demonstrate that contaminants pose a real threat for TSS, and experts like University of Adelaide molecular pharmacologist Ian Musgrave have disproved claims they pose one. He noted that tampons only release trace amounts of estrogen which wouldn’t have any significant impact even if released at levels equivalent to women’s bodies.
Choose a tampon made with organic cotton and no rayon to decrease chemical exposure, but regardless of what you use, be sure to follow existing tampon guidelines such as changing them every 4-8 hours, using low absorbency for your flow rate, and understanding TSS symptoms.
