Feminine hygiene products are everyday essentials used by millions of individuals across the globe, but new research indicates worries over levels of toxic chemicals within these intimate products. New studies have found significant amounts of dangerous substances in tampons, pads, and period underwear, leaving many questioning their safety and regulation. 

Toxic Chemicals in Feminine Hygiene Products: The Hidden Chemical Burden 

Contemporary menstrual products are filled with so much more than cotton and absorbent materials. Studies have repeatedly identified several categories of toxic chemicals in various brands and types of products. A large systematic review of 15 studies concluded that menstrual products had detectable amounts of endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as phthalates, phenols, and parabens. 

The most shocking revelation came with a 2024 study identifying that all 16 tested metals were found in at least one sample from 14 different brands, including the poisonous metals lead and arsenic. The historic research was the first study ever conducted to specifically quantify metals in tampons, with lead detected at 100% of samples tested. 

 

Major Chemical Categories of Concern

• Heavy Metals

The availability of toxic metals in tampons has becomes a major issue. Lead, which is not safe to be exposed to at any level, was detected in every tampon sample. Other metals found were arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and chromium. These can lead to neurological harm, kidney issues, cardiovascular effects, and cancer risk. 

• PFAS (Forever Chemicals)

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which are commonly referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their inability to easily break down, have been identified in many menstrual products. A study commissioned by consumer watchdog websites detected PFAS in 48% of sanitary liners and pads, 22% of tampons, and 65% of period underwear. The chemicals have been linked to cancer, liver injury, immune suppression, reproductive issues, and hormonal interference. 

• Phthalates

These plasticizers are ubiquitous in menstrual products, and up to 12 different phthalates have been found in regular pads by studies. Phthalates have been linked with endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, birth defects, and diabetes. The vulvar and vaginal tissues are also sensitive to these chemicals because they have high permeability. 

• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

VOCs such as acetone, toluene, and xylene find applications as fragrances, adhesives, and absorbents in menstrual products. These chemicals may lead to respiratory problems, damage to the reproductive system, and neurological disorders. Experiments identified VOCs in all the regular pads that were tested, with up to 14 VOCs present in some brands. 

• Dioxins and Furans

These cancer-causing chemicals are residues of chlorine bleaching operations employed to bleach tampons and pads. Although they decreased after elemental chlorine bleaching was eliminated, traces are still present and can lead to cancer, endocrine disruption, and reproductive toxicity. 

 

2. Health Hazards and Susceptible Groups

The health effects of such exposure are especially troubling with the intimate use of menstrual products. The vulvar and vaginal tissues are extremely permeable, and chemicals enter directly into the bloodstream without first-pass metabolism. This implies that exposure via menstrual products could be more dramatic than from other sources. 

Women of color are disproportionately at risk, since they are more intensive users of feminine cleansing products such as douches, wipes, and sprays that tend to have more toxic chemicals. Moreover, individuals in poor communities might not have access to safer substitutes. 

The total exposure in a lifetime is great. The typical menstruator will use over 11,000 tampons or pads throughout their reproductive lifetime. This extended, repeated exposure to hazardous chemicals takes place during periods of heightened sensitivity and throughout the reproductive life cycle. 

 

3. Gaps in Regulation and Industry Response

In spite of the mass consumption of menstrual products, they are still not regulated appropriately. The FDA considers tampons to be medical devices but does not require them to be tested for chemical contaminants. Existing FDA guidelines from 2005 only suggest that tampons must not contain dioxins and pesticide residues, but do not imply routine testing. 

In September 2024, the FDA said it would order third-party studies to assess metals in tampons amid increasing public alarm. But an FDA-commissioned literature review published recently detected no safety issues linked to the use of tampons and exposure to contaminants, although researchers identified strong study limitations. 

No requirements exist for companies to list all ingredients in menstrual products, and without this information, it is impossible for consumers to make an informed decision. This transparency is unavailable in comparison to other consumer goods and personal care products. 

 

4. Safer Alternatives and Recommendations

 

• Organic Cotton Products

Organic cotton tampons and pads have some benefits over their traditional counterparts. They are free from chemicals, dyes, fragrances, and synthetic materials. Organic cotton cultivation does not use pesticides, which decreases both the risk of chemical exposure and environmental pollution. But still, organic tampons have been detected with some metals, which means no products are totally clean of all contaminants. 

• Menstrual Cups

Menstrual cups of medical-grade silicone are one of the safest available. They have no unnecessary or harmful chemicals and undergo testing for biocompatibility. Menstrual cups were found to be safe and well-tolerated in studies, with risks comparable to or less than those of other menstrual products. Menstrual cups also have environmental advantages, as they can last 10 years if properly maintained. 

• Reusable Cloth Pads

Cloth pads constructed with natural fibers such as organic cotton offer a chemical-free option to disposable pads. They breathe, minimize moisture accumulation, and can be washed and reused for years. In contrast to synthetic pads, they have no plastic elements or chemical additives. 

• PFAS-Free Period Underwear

Certain manufacturers now make period underwear directly without PFAS, solving contamination issues within this product line. These brands utilize alternative compounds to create moisture-wicking and leak-proof effects without the use of forever chemicals. 

 

• Informed Choice

When choosing menstrual products, apply the following suggestions: 

i) Search for certifications: Opt for products that are third-party certified such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), OEKO-TEX, or Made Safe. 

ii) Read labels: Although incomplete, ingredient labeling is getting better from some companies. 

iii) Think about your own needs: Flow, activity level, and individual comfort should direct product choice in addition to safety concerns. 

iv) Vary your strategy: Employing a product mix (e.g., organic tampons and menstrual cups) can minimize overall exposure with continued convenience. 

 

• The Path Forward

The existence of poisonous chemicals in women’s hygiene products is a major public health issue that demands urgent action. Though studies remain ongoing to determine the full spectrum of health threats, the precautionary principle dictates that exposures should be curtailed from known toxins, particularly in those items so intimately and regularly used. 

Increased regulatory supervision, required disclosure of ingredients, and ongoing safety testing are the necessary next steps to safeguard consumers. The Robin Danielson Menstrual Product and Intimate Care Product Safety Act of 2023, presented in the U.S. House of Representatives, is an encouraging step towards creating research programs to investigate the dangers of chemicals in menstrual products. 

Until there are broad reforms in place, consumers will need to be aware and cautious about the products they use. The increased accessibility of better-safe alternatives means clean, safe period products can become the norm, not the exception. Everyone should have access to period products that safeguard their health while successfully controlling menstruation. 

The debate regarding poisonous chemicals in feminine care products is no longer hushed—it’s a public health debate involving millions of individuals and requiring immediate action from manufacturers, regulators, and consumers.