A study by researchers at the University of California, Berkeley found the presence of toxic heavy metals, including lead, arsenic, nickel, cadmium, and mercury, in tampons sold in the U.S., Europe, and the UK.
Organic tampons were found to contain higher levels of arsenic, while non-organic tampons had more lead.
Between 52% to 86% of menstruating individuals use tampons.
The metals could originate from the soil where cotton and rayon plants are grown or enter during the manufacturing process.
While exposure to heavy metals from tampons can potentially lead to health issues, the study did not measure blood levels or adverse effects in tampon users.
The FDA regulates tampons as medical devices but does not require testing for chemical contaminants.
Lead can replace calcium in bones and teeth, accumulate in the body, and cause cognitive impairment in adults and children, with unborn fetuses being especially vulnerable, even at low-level exposure.
The study is the first of its kind to measure chemicals in tampons.
Dr. Tamika Auguste, an OB-GYN, says tampons are safe to use, and no significant increase in negative health outcomes related to tampon use has been observed. However, using tampons correctly and changing them frequently is important.
The FDA is reviewing the study findings.
This article was written in collaboration with Generative AI news company Alchemiq
Sources: CBS News, NBC News, Axios, Newsweek, Time, Sky News, Fast Company, USA Today