A worrying scientific study reveals that hygiene products used daily by half of the world’s population are contaminated with several toxic substances.
Tampons, essential for many women during their periods, are one of the most purchased products in the world. Sold in all pharmacies and supermarkets, they offer comfort and practicality. As UFC-Que Choisir points out, half of customers still used them in 2020, despite the arrival of reusable menstrual protection (panties, cups, discs, etc.). However, they are increasingly criticized, due to their opaque composition.
Many toxic substances, such as perennial pollutants (PFAS), pesticides and volatile organic compounds, have already been found in these tampons. In addition, these menstrual products are known to cause toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare but potentially fatal infection, often caused by toxins produced by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, which is present in the vagina of 1% of women. The prolonged absorption of substances present in tampons, combined with the risks of TSS, therefore creates a double threat for users.
And this is precisely what an American study relayed by UFC-Que Choisir highlights! Researchers have in fact looked at twenty-four references of tampons from international brands or distributors, sold in Europe or the United States. Result: all contained toxic substances, namely arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead and vanadium.
Even organic tampons are not spared from these metals. On the other hand, we do not necessarily find the same substances, and to varying degrees. Thus, organic hygiene products contain more arsenic, chromium and manganese, but less zinc, lead or cadmium.
In any case, the presence of these metals is not indicated on the packaging, which is problematic. The researchers suggest that the cotton is contaminated during its cultivation, cleaning or the tampon manufacturing process, as some of the metals are used for their antibacterial or lubricating properties, or to prevent odours.
This finding is particularly concerning for women who use tampons multiple times a day during their menstrual cycle. Repeated and prolonged exposure to these metals could potentially increase the risk of developing long-term health problems. The mode of exposure, via the vaginal mucosa, makes the absorption of these substances all the more concerning, as this area is particularly permeable and sensitive.
Fortunately, in France, the regulations changed at the beginning of the year, requiring manufacturers to provide more details on the composition of tampons. When metals are intentionally used, they must now appear on the label. But this rule does not apply to substances introduced unintentionally, and yet which cause contamination…