Silent Risks Behind Toxins in Period Products

Most people never think about what is inside their pads or tampons. They trust the product and use it for hours every month. But recent research shows toxins in period products, where many mainstream items contain heavy metals, chemicals, and “forever chemicals” that can enter the body. Vaginal skin absorbs substances faster than other areas, so exposure is higher than many expect. With 50 to 80 percent of menstruators using tampons monthly, this issue has become hard to ignore.

Toxins in Period Products: Heavy Metals

A UC Berkeley study tested tampons from many brands. It found toxic metals like lead, arsenic, and cadmium in all of them. On average, tampons contained about 100 nanograms of lead per gram and around 2 nanograms of arsenic. The lead level was roughly ten times higher than what is allowed in drinking water. These metals are linked to nervous system damage, organ harm, and even cancer.

Read Also: Top 4 Harmful Chemicals in Conventional Pads You Should Know About

The study also showed that both organic and non organic tampons carry risks. Organic products tended to have more arsenic, while non organic ones had more lead. This means the danger is present across the market, not just in one type of product.

Chemicals That Disrupt the Body

Beyond metals, a systematic review found endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in menstrual products. These include phthalates, phenols, and parabens. EDCs can affect hormones, which may lead to fertility problems, metabolic issues, and certain cancers.

Other toxins in period products or chemicals such as volatile organic compounds and dioxins have also been detected. These substances can add another layer of risk when used for long periods.

PFAS: The “Forever Chemicals”

PFAS are a major concern in mainstream period care. They are called “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily. These chemicals were found in 48 percent of sanitary pads, 22 percent of tampons, and 65 percent of period underwear. Many brands use PFAS to create leak proof layers. But PFAS are linked to hormone disruption and even early menstruation. About one third of period underwear and one fourth of reusable pads intentionally use PFAS for performance. Once PFAS enter the body, they can stay for years.

How These Toxins in Period Products Affect Health

Lead has no safe level in the body. Even low exposure, such as 10 micrograms per deciliter in blood, can cause cognitive problems and kidney damage. Arsenic and cadmium add further stress to the organs. When these metals enter through vaginal tissue, the body can absorb them more easily.

EDCs like phthalates and PFAS disturb the hormone system. Over time this may raise the risk of cancer, fertility issues, and metabolic disease. Many people use these products for hours every month, which increases long term exposure without realizing it.

What Studies and Regulations Say

Researchers want more testing and more transparency. The 2023 systematic review and the 2024 UC Berkeley analysis both call for deeper study into how these chemicals enter and affect the body. In many places, ingredients still do not need to be listed. The United States has no federal rule that requires companies to show what is inside period products.

Some states have taken action. New York will ban PFAS, lead, mercury, and formaldehyde from menstrual products starting in 2025, with full thresholds by 2029. California and New York also require ingredient disclosure. These rules have already revealed many carcinogens and endocrine disruptors in common brands.

Why Awareness About Toxins in Period Products Matters Now

Imagine absorbing lead at levels ten times above drinking water limits every month. This is the reality that current studies show. Knowing what is inside these products helps people protect their bodies and push for safer options. Many want simple transparency so they can choose products that match their health needs.

Read Also: The Question Many Women Ask: Are Sanitary Pads Safe?

Making Safer Choices Going Forward

Understanding toxins in period products is the first step toward safer care. If you want cleaner options, you can explore brands that avoid heavy metals, EDCs, and PFAS. To learn more and see safer alternatives, check out Fizabelle’s organic pad offers. Your comfort and safety are worth it.