Rethinking Menstrual Products
Menstrual product conversations are too often ignored, to the point that regulations have not changed in decades. However, recent studies reveal significant safety concerns with menstrual products: tampons can contain toxic metals like lead and arsenic, while pads may have harmful chemicals such as PFAS. It is time to advocate for transparency and regulation in the industry in order to keep ourselves safe.
Periods are a natural and essential aspect of life, yet they remain a rather uncomfortable and even taboo topic in many cultures. This discomfort often leads to a lack of open discussion about the products used during menstruation, and because of it, we have become blind to environmental and safety issues surround it. Recent investigations have brought to light the presence of heavy metals in tampons and the potential health hazards posed by pads. But these are not the only issues surrounding menstrual periods, as it is important to note the lack of environmental sustainability surrounding the whole feminine hygiene industry.
Safety Issues with Products
Tampons
A recent study led by UC Berkeley researchers has revealed that tampons from several brands contain up to 16 toxic metals, including prominent levels of lead, arsenic, and cadmium. Despite tampons being so popular, researchers estimated 100 million women in over 120 countries use them, this study is the first to thoroughly investigate the presence of heavy metals in these products. The findings highlight a significant gap in our knowledge about the safety of a product used by millions of people every month.
In trying to understand why metals are present in tampons, researchers suggested a few possible causes. One possibility is that since cotton fiber is highly absorbent, it could have absorbed metals from water, air, soil, or nearby contaminants. For example, a cotton field being in close proximity to a lead smelter could result in the unintentional addition of lead. Another possibility is that metals are intentionally added during the manufacturing process. Although the study couldn’t pinpoint the exact negative effects of these heavy metals, it’s clear that more research is needed to ensure everyone’s safety.
Pads
Pads, another commonly used menstrual product, are not entirely safe either. Many conventional pads contain layers of plastic, synthetic fibers, and chemical additives like fragrances and absorbency enhancers. These components can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and other discomforts. However, that’s not even the biggest issue. The plastic backing in pads is non-breathable, creating an ideal environment for bacteria. Once you use the pad, the possibility of infection arises.
Studies have also found that menstrual pads contain chemicals like phthalates, VOCs, and PFAS, which are associated with developmental and reproductive harm. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has linked PFAS to decreased fertility, hormonal disruption, and an increased risk of certain cancers.
Additionally, exposure to PFAS — perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances — has quite concerning effects on health, including delaying puberty in girls, lowering bone mineral density, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes, thyroid cancer, and liver damage. They have earned the name of “forever chemicals,” due to their long-lasting nature, and can lead to serious long-term issues like breast cancer, renal disease, and osteoporosis.
Environmental Impact
The environmental impact of disposable period products is not spoken of nearly enough. Those of you who have seen pads and tampons have undoubtedly seen the various plastic components, including the applicators, wrappers, and the products themselves. These plastics are not different from other typical plastics, as they are both not biodegradable and contribute significantly to plastic pollution. An estimated 5,000 to 15,000 period products are used by an individual over their lifetime, and with each product taking hundreds of years to decompose, the combined environmental damage is something we should really be taking note of.
The cultivation of cotton for pads and tampons contributes significantly to environmental issues. This is because the process typically involves using pesticides, and the production of cotton requires an immense amount of water. This can actually lead to soil degradation and water contamination, further harming our environment. Additionally, the production and disposal of these products involve substantial resource consumption, requiring even larger amounts of water, energy, and raw materials, which further deteriorate the environment.
Disposable period products, along with their plastic packaging, frequently end up in landfills. Once there, they take centuries to break down, or worse, find their way into oceans, posing threats to marine life. Tampon applicators, in particular, are a common source of pollution. They are often found on beaches and other bodies of water, where they can be ingested by wildlife, causing harm and death. As awareness of these issues grows, there is an urgent need for more sustainable practices in both the production and disposal of menstrual products. Embracing eco-friendly alternatives and supporting innovations in sustainable menstrual products are crucial steps towards reducing our environmental impact.
Positive Progress
In light of these concerns, there has actually been a movement towards sustainable and healthier alternatives to conventional period products.
Menstrual Cups
One of the most popular alternatives is the menstrual cup, a reusable device typically made from medical-grade silicone. Menstrual cups can be worn for up to 12 hours, depending on flow, and can last for several years with proper care. This longevity significantly reduces the amount of waste generated compared to disposable products. Additionally, menstrual cups are free from the harmful chemicals found in many traditional period products, making them a safer option for long-term use.
Period Underwear
Another sustainable option is period underwear, which is designed to absorb menstrual flow and can be washed and reused. These garments offer a comfortable and discreet alternative to pads and tampons, with varying levels of absorbency to suit different needs. Period underwear is particularly appealing for those looking for a low-maintenance, eco-friendly solution. However, before you just go and purchase period underwear, it's important to look further into it, as data shows that 65% of period underwear contains PFAS.
Reusable Pads
Reusable pads, made from natural materials like organic cotton, are also gaining popularity. These pads can be washed and reused multiple times, offering a chemical-free and biodegradable option that is gentle on the skin and the environment. Again, reusable pads do contain PFAS, only 48%, but it still is important to do proper research and look over everything carefully.
Organic Options
For those who prefer the familiarity of tampons and pads but want to avoid added harmful chemicals, organic options are available. Organic tampons are made from 100% organic cotton and are free from synthetic additives, pesticides, and dyes. They offer a much safer choice for the environment, as they are biodegradable. Similarly, organic cotton pads are also an eco-friendly alternative, being fully biodegradable and free from plastic components. Nonetheless, it is important to note that research has discovered larger quantities of arsenic present, due to fertilizers in cotton fields.
Looking Forward
It has become evident that no menstrual product is 100% safe. Despite the critical role that menstrual products play in the lives of millions of people, innovation in this area has been slow. Tampons, for example, have been around for nearly a century, yet little has changed in their design and regulation. This stagnation is partly due to the stigma surrounding menstruation, which has led to a lack of investment and interest in improving menstrual products. As a result, many of the health and environmental issues associated with these products have persisted.
However, the conversation around menstrual health and sustainability is slowly gaining momentum. Increasing awareness of the potential health risks and environmental impacts of conventional period products has spurred interest in safer, more sustainable alternatives. It is crucial for consumers to advocate for transparency and regulation in the menstrual product industry. Likewise, manufacturers and policymakers must prioritize the development and availability of products that are safe for users and environmentally friendly.
Recap
Menstrual product conversations are too often ignored, to the point that regulations have not changed in decades. However, recent studies reveal significant safety concerns with menstrual products: tampons can contain toxic metals like lead and arsenic, while pads may have harmful chemicals such as PFAS. It is time to advocate for transparency and regulation in the industry in order to keep ourselves safe.
The environmental impacts of these products are also severe, involving non-biodegradable plastics and resource-intensive production. As awareness grows, sustainable alternatives like menstrual cups and organic options are emerging, though more innovation and research are needed to address these issues fully. We need to continue shedding light on these issues in order to really foster change.