Organic tampons might be better for the environment, but there’s no proof they’re healthier or safer to use than their conventional counterparts.
Organic tampons differ from their conventional counterparts in that they do not contain dioxins derived from chlorine gas bleaching processes, which are produced as byproducts.
When purchasing a tampon, take into account your specific needs and preferences in terms of absorbency and applicator type.
Organic Tampons with Plant-Based Applicators
With more options than ever to manage your period, such as menstrual cups and period panties, organic tampons may tempt you. While no evidence suggests organic tampons prevent TSS (toxic shock syndrome, an uncommon but potentially life-threatening condition associated with conventional tampon use), they could reduce exposure to dioxin and BPA found in conventional products like pads.
When selecting an organic tampon, be sure it has been certified organic by a third-party organization such as GOTS, Oeko-Tex Standard 100 or Made Safe. Furthermore, ensure it does not contain synthetic materials in its applicator or container.
Note that, although the core of an organic tampon may be biodegradable, its applicator might not. Some brands feature cardboard or plastic applicators while others don’t include any.
Lola
These organic cotton tampons from Target offer an economical option with less than $6 and come with a BPA-free applicator, and are hypoallergenic and gynecologist approved – always an added benefit!
Lola Tampons use organic cotton that has not been treated with pesticides or bleached with chlorine to produce their tampons – something regular tampons cannot. Instead, Lola tampons contain no dioxin that may enter through vaginal canal toxicity; and are bleached without chlorine use for extra safety.
Additionally, they boast that their products are free from dyes, synthetics and fragrances as well as any animal ingredients, with their products made right here in the US for a lower carbon footprint. Plus they donate to multiple women-related charities such as ZanaAfrica Foundation to assist adolescent girls stay in school by providing reproductive health education and products, and Aakar Innovations which offers eco-friendly biodegradable menstrual products at an affordable cost – both companies are dedicated to providing accessible sanitary needs to women living outside urban centers of India!
Biodegradable Tampons with Plant-Based Applicators
Plastic applicators contain phthalates, which are known endocrine disruptors linked to hormone and fertility issues. Furthermore, they do not biodegrade quickly enough, contributing to global plastic pollution. Biodegradable tampons made with paper or cardboard reduce the environmental impact of disposables significantly.
Always opt for organic, OEKO-TEX certified cotton tampons that feature an easy and effortless cardboard applicator and come in various absorbencies to meet your flow needs. Furthermore, look out for brands free from rayon, dyes, or fragrances to protect both you and your skin from potential irritation.
Some brands of biodegradable tampons feature an easy insertion string to help find the ideal position and make using more comfortable. To prevent irritation, change tampons every 4-8 hours and ensure it has been correctly installed by gently pulling on its string. When disposing of used tampons it should always be wrapped in tissue paper before placing in general waste bin.
Organic Tampons with BPA-Free Applicators
Organic tampons are made from 100 percent certified organic cotton and free from dyes or fragrances, as well as being GOTS-certified (Global Organic Textile Standard). Furthermore, these organic products don’t use synthetic fertilizers, pesticides or insecticides that could compromise both human health and the environment.
Traditional tampons are bleached with chlorine, creating dioxins as byproducts – known carcinogens and potential hormone disruptors – as part of their manufacturing process. The FDA requires companies to monitor dioxin levels, which have since decreased to “harmless” levels.
However, many brands now provide BPA-free applicators to keep you safe. If you want to reduce chemical exposure further, consider organic or unscented tampons without an applicator; pads or menstrual cups contain significantly fewer phthalates and no dioxins compared with tampons; but if you do choose tampons be sure you use the least absorbent ones and change them out every six hours.
