A recent study published in Environment International found that many tampon brands contain metals and metalloids, some of which are known to cause negative health effects. Social media posts about the study sparked widespread concern, but researchers still don’t know if metals in tampons can enter the bloodstream.
For now, experts say tampons are safe.
Read on to learn more about the study’s findings, plus alternative menstrual products.
What did the study find?
Researchers evaluated the concentrations of 16 metals in 14 tampon brands. Metals were present in all of the tampons they tested. However, the amount and types of metals varied based on brand, where the tampons were purchased, and whether they were made of organic or nonorganic material.
Notably, lead, arsenic, and cadmium—three chemicals known to cause health issues like brain damage and cancer—were found in some tampons from several brands.
How do metals get into tampons?
Tampons are typically made from a mix of cotton and rayon, both of which are highly absorbent. These materials can be contaminated by metals in water, air, and soil during production.
Other products made of cotton and rayon—like clothing—can become contaminated with metals in the same way.
Some tampon manufacturers may also intentionally add certain metals that have been deemed safe by the FDA to their products to create pigment or reduce odors.
Are tampons safe?
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, there is no safe amount of lead exposure, and arsenic and cadmium are only safe to ingest at low concentrations. However, the study was not able to determine whether the metals in tampons can enter the bloodstream through the vaginal wall or if the concentrations of metals are concerning.
While the researchers advocate for more manufacturer testing of toxic metals in their products, for now, the Food and Drug Administration—which regulates tampons—and other experts agree tampons are safe.
In addition, given the attention garnered by the study’s results, the FDA announced on September 10 the launch of a research project and independent review to examine the potential effects of toxic metals in tampons.
What other types of menstrual products are available?
If you’re concerned about using tampons or you’re curious about other options, here are some alternatives:
- Menstrual cups ($20-$40): These reusable, funnel-shaped cups are typically made out of silicone, a flexible, nontoxic material. Menstrual cups are inserted into the vagina, where they suction around the cervix and collect menstrual blood. You can safely wear a menstrual cup for up to 12 hours.
Emptying and reinserting a menstrual cup can be messy, so they may not be an ideal option during certain situations, such as travel. Learn how to insert and remove a menstrual cup from Period Nirvana.
Menstrual cups can be washed with fragrance-free soap and water and should be sterilized after each menstrual period by submerging them in boiling water for five minutes. You can buy menstrual cups online and at some drugstores and grocery stores. - Menstrual discs ($10-$50): Reusable menstrual discs are similar to menstrual cups, but they’re flatter. Like menstrual cups, they’re made out of silicone, can safely be worn for up to 12 hours, should be sterilized with boiling water in between periods, and may be challenging to empty and reinsert.
Learn how to insert and remove a menstrual disc from Period Nirvana.
Disposable menstrual discs have similar features, but they’re made of a medical-grade polymer—which, like silicone, is nontoxic and hypoallergenic—and should be thrown away after each use. Some people report that they can comfortably wear reusable or disposable menstrual discs during vaginal sex, as they do not obstruct the vagina.
You can buy menstrual discs online and at some drugstores and grocery stores. - Period underwear ($10-$50): These absorbent garments fit like underwear, but they use multiple layers of fabric to absorb menstrual blood. Different brands and styles have varying degrees of absorbency. Period underwear can be washed in a washing machine and reused repeatedly. You can purchase period underwear online and at some department stores.
- Pads (prices vary): Disposable pads are made of cotton and rayon and use adhesive to attach to underwear. Although pads and tampons are made of the same materials, pads may carry a lower risk of metal exposure since they’re not worn internally. They should be thrown away after each use. You can get disposable pads at most drug stores and grocery stores.
Reusable pads are available in a variety of materials, like silk, hemp, or bamboo. They typically attach around the crotch of underwear with snaps.
Reusable pads are softer than disposable pads, which limits chafing, and like period underwear, they can be washed and reused. However, finding a way to store used pads while on the go may be challenging. You can purchase reusable pads online or make your own.
If you cannot afford menstrual products, you can get them for free at some food banks, diaper banks, shelters, health clinics, and schools. If you’re struggling to find free menstrual products, contact your local service directory by calling 211 or visit 211.org.
For more information, talk to your health care provider.