Organic menstrual products are made of natural and skin-friendly materials grown without pesticides. Furthermore, they do not contain plastic, dyes or fragrances for an all natural experience.
But it is important to keep in mind that organic tampons and pads may not necessarily be better for your health. A study revealed that those labeled as organic or “for sensitive skin” had similar levels of VOC emissions as nonorganic options.
Natural
Organic menstrual products differ from conventional tampons in that they do not contain synthetic chemicals such as pesticides and bleaches, which could potentially harm your health. Such substances have been known to disrupt delicate endocrine systems and cause vaginal irritation, pain, rashes or allergic reactions in some individuals.
Organic tampons are free from dyes and fragrances that could irritate. Furthermore, they’re typically produced using non-toxic, chlorine-free whitening methods which are better for the environment.
Many women favor organic tampons as a natural way to reduce the risk of TSS, an uncommon but serious complication caused by an overgrowth of bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus). Unfortunately, studies have disproved this myth; no matter if your pad or tampon contains regular or organic cotton fibers such as rayon or rayon blends it will not increase your risk for TSS.
Biodegradable
Organic pads and tampons are available on the market, with several certified organic brands featuring different absorbency levels. When shopping organic options, look for labels like “GOTS,” “Oeko-Tex Standard 100,” or “Made Safe,” and check whether their applicators are plastic or cardboard; many organic tampons offer reusable cardboard applicators as an added convenience.
Regular tampons are made from non-organic cotton that has been bleached with chlorine bleaching agents; organic tampons on the other hand are made with 100% organic cotton that has been bleached with hydrogen peroxide bleaching. Organic tampons tend to be safer when it comes to TSS risk, though as with all things FDA guidelines when choosing your tampon, opting for one with low absorbency and changing them often.
Organic tampons are not the only eco-friendly options when it comes to menstrual products; there are others such as reusable menstrual pads and period underwear which may help decrease waste each month. While these items require more of an investment up front, they could help lower overall waste generation rates significantly.
Eco-friendly
Menstrual products like pads and tampons are used by billions of women worldwide each month, yet improper usage can cause serious health complications for many. Education gaps as well as limited access to sanitary supplies in low-income areas compound this issue further; eco-friendly options like organic cotton tampons and pads may help alleviate some of these concerns while simultaneously helping the environment by reducing environmental harm.
Organic cotton tampons and pads are made with untreated cotton that hasn’t been treated with pesticides or synthetic chemicals, without dyes or fragrances added for color or aromatherapy purposes. Conversely, nonorganic versions typically comprise conventional cotton that has been treated with pesticides and synthetic materials and may include dyes or fragrances as additives.
Although eco-friendly products have their ecological advantages, they still come with their own set of downsides. For instance, organic or “natural” tampons and pads tend to be more costly than their nonorganic counterparts and require more energy for production, having a negative impact on climate. Furthermore, Batterman et al. found that products labeled as such don’t always produce less volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Comfortable
Conventional tampons and pads contain chemicals that may be absorbed through your vaginal mucous membrane and enter your bloodstream, potentially disrupting fertility and health. Non-toxic period products like organic tampons from Seventh Generation and Natracare as well as period underwear, menstrual cups (DivaCup and Keeper) as well as reusable cloth pads are available that may reduce exposure.
Organic tampons and pads can be biodegradable as well, so look out for labels with the Global Organic Textile Standards (GOTS) certification to guarantee organic ingredients without chemical additives. The Honest Company’s organic tampons are hypoallergenic with slim applicators for easy application – perfect for women who experience irritation from traditional tampons or have sensitive cervixes; plus each purchase helps support girls in need!
