Image source: https://www.edana.org/about-us/news/statement-on-tampons-as-a-source-of-exposure-to-metalloids
By: Niroshini Mather
A recent study published in Environmental International sounded alarms about public and women’s health through its troubling findings regarding metal contamination in tampons. Researchers examined 16 metals—including lead, arsenic, cadmium, and chromium—in tampons from 14 brands. These metals were found across all samples, irrespective of product type (organic or non-organic) or brand type (store-brand vs. name-brand). While specific variations existed, including higher lead concentrations in non-organic tampons and elevated arsenic in organic tampons, no subcategory demonstrated significantly lower contamination overall. This suggests that metal contamination is pervasive in tampons, regardless of manufacturing or marketing labels (Weaver et al, 2024).
The implications of this study are far-reaching. Heavy metal exposure has been associated with severe health outcomes, including neurodegenerative diseases like dementia, infertility, and cancer. Moreover, these metals can disrupt maternal and fetal health, raising concerns about their impact during pregnancy (Weaver et al, 2024). The high absorption capacity of vaginal tissue, in addition to the frequency with which tampons are used by those who menstruate, exacerbates concern regarding the potential for exposure. Despite these valid concerns, this is the first study to rigorously investigate tampons as a potential source of chemical exposure, reflecting a significant gap in women’s health research and overall product safety oversight (Proulx, 2024; Treisman, 2024).
The origins of metal contamination in tampons is a question still up for debate. Researchers suggest possible sources include environmental absorption or intentional additions during manufacturing processes, like the use of metals as pigments. While some metals, like iron and zinc, are generally regarded as safe in small amounts, the cumulative effects of long-term exposure remain unclear. This underscores the urgent need for further research to determine acceptable exposure levels, if any, and to evaluate the health and longevity implications of these contaminants (Weaver et al, 2024).
The FDA has launched its own investigation into these findings and conducted a broader review of chemical safety in menstrual products. Current U.S. regulations do not require tampons to be tested for heavy metals or other chemical contaminants (Dangerfield, 2024). The lack of comprehensive safety testing highlights the pressing need for stronger regulatory measures and more transparency from manufacturers regarding product composition.
What does this mean for consumers? While we wait for more definitive research and regulatory changes, opting for tampons without plastic applicators, fragrances, or added colourants can help reduce exposure to potentially harmful substances. At the same time, alternatives can be used like menstrual cups or pads. It should be emphasized, however, that this study does not classify all tampons as inherently unsafe, nor does it recommend discontinuing their use entirely. Instead, it urges regulators, manufacturers, and researchers to prioritize the safety of menstrual products and work towards addressing the significant gaps in our understanding of their long-term health impacts (Purtill, 2024; Treisman, 2024).
References
Dangerfield, K. (2024, September 11). FDA launches probe after study finds trace toxic metals in tampon brands. Global News. https://globalnews.ca/news/10749836/tampons-heavy-metals-safety-fda-investigation/
Proulx, E. (2024). First study to measure toxic metals in tampons shows arsenic and lead. UC Berkeley School of Public Health. https://publichealth.berkeley.edu/news-media/research-highlights/first-study-to-measure-toxic-metals-in-tampons-shows-arsenic-and-lead
Purtill, C. (2024, August 2). Do you really need to ditch your tampons over safety concerns? Time. https://time.com/7007220/tampon-safety-metals/
Treisman, R. (2024, July 11). Tampons contain heavy metals, raising new safety concerns, study finds. NPR. https://www.npr.org/2024/07/11/nx-s1-5036484/tampons-heavy-metals-study
Weaver, J., Upson, K., Gordon, M., Do, V., Balac, O., Nguyen, K., Yan, B., Kioumourtzoglou, M.-A., & Schilling , K. (2024). Tampons may contain some toxic metals, according to new study. Environment International, 190. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envint.2024.108849
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