Scientists identified concerning levels of lead, arsenic, and other metals in tampons, according to a new study.
What did the research find?
16 toxic metals, including lead and arsenic, were found in all 30 samples with the metal found in highest concentrations being zinc. The study found that lead concentrations were higher in non-organic tampons while arsenic was higher in organic tampons, perhaps due to the application of natural fertilizers in organic cotton fields. The 14 brands analyzed were not named in the study as the research wanted to highlight that ALL tested tampons had elevated levels of toxic metals.
Why is this important?
Due to the high absorbency of the vaginal skin and needing to keep tampons in for long periods of time, they have high potential for chemical exposure. Exposure to certain metals, including the ones found in the study, has been linked to various health concerns, including cognitive decline, reproductive issues, and an increased risk of chronic diseases. These metals can accumulate in the body and potentially harm vital organs and systems.
50–80% of those who menstruate use tampons, with many purchasing them on Amazon for price and convenience. If you’re already shopping for tampons on Amazon, here are some organic and sustainable alternatives:
