We’re unpacking all the things you need to know on the subject of chemical substances in tampons. Plus: the advantages of switching to natural tampons and different female care issues.
Do you utilize tampons? Since an estimated 50 to 86 p.c of all menstruating ladies in america do, let’s assume sure.
Now, when’s the final time you considered how protected they are surely? Additional, maybe you’ve puzzled should you ought to use natural tampons, and if there are actual advantages to switching.
Right here’s a more in-depth take a look at chemical substances in tampons and the advantages of going natural.
First, what are Tampons product of?
Whereas producers beforehand used 4 artificial supplies to make tampons, three of them have been taken off the market because of well being issues.
The one that is still to today is rayon, which is prized for absorbency however is what one medical microbiologist calls “one of the best of the unhealthy 4 elements.”
Lately, tampons use rayon, cotton, or typically a mix of the 2. For the file, the identical microbiologist claims that an all-cotton tampon “is the very best product.”
What chemical substances are in Tampons?
Dioxins
So far as chemical substances in tampons go, dioxins seem like the most important offender.
Within the typical tampon bleaching course of, dioxins can linger behind. And dioxins are “probably dangerous when absorbed internally over a time period,” says Wendy Goodall McDonald, MD, FACOG, a board-certified OB-GYN primarily based in Chicago.
Do Dioxins Make Tampons Poisonous?
Doubtlessly—however the concern about dioxins in tampons will get difficult.
Whereas a 2002 research confirms that hint quantities of dioxins exist in tampons, they’re at a considerably decrease focus than dioxins from on a regular basis dietary publicity.
Nonetheless, the World Well being Group states that dioxins are extremely poisonous and may compromise hormonal, immune, and reproductive well being. For that reason, they pose a legitimate concern.
The chemical content material can turn into extra regarding when you contemplate publicity from utilizing tampons on a month-to-month foundation over a few years. On high of that, mucous membranes within the vagina quickly soak up chemical substances and fluids.
All issues thought of, conclusive research are required earlier than reaching an official verdict on dioxins in tampons.
Different Chemical substances in Tampons
Dr. Goodall McDonald shares different chemical substances that typical tampons—every of which poses its personal potential dangers—together with:
- synthetic fragrances
- aluminum
- hydrocarbons
- dyes
- chorine
- pesticides
- BPA (in plastic applicators)
What’s the distinction between natural and common tampons?
Earlier than studying about the advantages of natural tampons, it helps to know what makes them natural within the first place.
Bea Dixon, CEO/Founding father of all-natural female care model The Honey Pot Firm, explains that an natural certification depends upon the kind of cotton used.
“Most typical tampons don’t use natural cotton,” she begins. As a substitute, “the cotton is processed with bleach and different chemical substances that may depart a residue,” consisting of 1 or among the chemical substances listed above.
Advantages of Natural Tampons
“From much less cramping to much less bleeding and lowered irritation and sensitivity, natural tampons have a large number of advantages for ladies who need safer choices,” Dr. Goodall McDonald shares.
Moreover, Bea says that Honey Pot clients love that their natural tampons—which additionally use BPA-free bioplastic applicators—are leak-proof, straightforward to make use of, and above all, protected.
Extra Clear Female Care Ideas
Concerned with going past natural tampons? To actually clear up your female care—say, as you’ll your skincare routine, hair merchandise, or eating regimen—Bea has a number of extra suggestions.
Learn the Positive Print
“I extremely advocate taking a great take a look at what you’re presently utilizing,” she begins. “In case your merchandise are full of synthetic perfume, dioxins, parabens, and sulfates, you’ll positively need to transition to extra pure choices.”
Along with utilizing natural tampons and pads/liners, you may additionally be concerned with utilizing a latex-free, silicone menstrual cup.
To take issues a step additional, you could be equally selective on the subject of intercourse toys and lubricants.
Retailer Your Merchandise Properly
Bea additionally cautions in opposition to storing your cotton interval care merchandise below the lavatory sink. “It’s a darkish, humid house that may result in bacterial development in your menstrual merchandise,” she shares.
That mentioned, retailer your natural tampons and pads in your medication cupboard or linen closet. And even higher, contemplate letting them see the sunshine of day!
So, Ought to I Use Natural Tampons?
As all the time, the selection is yours. That mentioned, it’s all the time essential to be armed with the info and potential hazards of what you set into and in your physique.
For more information on clear female care merchandise, observe The Honey Pot Co on Instagram.
