On July 9, 2024, UC Berkeley School of Public Health released a groundbreaking study that sent ripples through the feminine hygiene industry and raised serious concerns among consumers. Published in the prestigious Environment International journal, the study led by Berkeley researcher Jenni A. Shearston uncovered unsettling truths about the contents of tampons—specifically, the presence of toxic metals such as lead, arsenic, and cadmium.
These findings are particularly alarming given that tampons are a staple for millions of people managing their menstrual cycles. The intimate and frequent use of these products highlights a critical gap in regulation and testing within the disposable period product industry. It begs the question: should substances known to harm our health be anywhere near our bodies, let alone in products used so intimately?
Reevaluating Menstrual Product Choices
In light of these revelations, it's clear that a reassessment of menstrual product choices is not just prudent but necessary for safeguarding personal health. Fortunately, there are alternatives readily available that offer both safety and sustainability: menstrual discs and menstrual cups.
Unlike tampons, which can contain metals from manufacturing processes, menstrual discs and cups—such as those from Saalt—are made with 100% medical-grade silicone. Medical-grade silicone is thermoset in a permanent bond, so menstrual cups and discs do not leach anything into the body or absorb anything from the body, offering peace of mind to users concerned about their well-being. Additionally, Saalt Cups and Discs are also “biocompatible.” Biocompatibility is the response to biomaterial (silicone cups/discs) which ensures the absence of various local and systemic toxicities and irritants; by not being toxic, injurious, or physiologically reactive they do not cause immunological rejection.
Beyond Safety: The Advantages of Menstrual Cups and Discs
The benefits of menstrual cups and discs extend beyond safety alone. They are reusable, significantly reducing environmental waste compared to their disposable counterparts. With proper care, a single Saalt menstrual cup can last up to 10 years, minimizing the environmental footprint associated with traditional tampons and pads.
Practically speaking, menstrual discs and cups can hold more fluid and can be worn for up to 12 hours without needing to be changed. This longer wear time not only enhances convenience but reduces the frequency changes, potentially reducing recurring exposure to bacteria from unclean hands or surfaces.
Empowering Consumers and Demanding Accountability
The shift towards menstrual cups and discs isn’t just about personal health—it’s about demanding accountability and transparency from manufacturers. The UC Berkeley study underscores the urgent need for better regulation and testing of menstrual products, ensuring that consumers are fully informed about the materials they're using.
As awareness grows about the potential risks associated with tampons, more individuals are turning to alternatives like menstrual cups, menstrual discs, and period underwear not treated with PFAS. These products empower users to take control of their menstrual health while aligning with their values. It’s a movement towards menstrual products that prioritize safety, sustainability, and transparency.
Embracing Change for a Healthier Future
While the findings of the UC Berkeley study may be unsettling, they also present an opportunity for positive change. By opting for period cups, menstrual discs, and leakproof panties over traditional tampons, people can make a proactive choice for their health and advocate for greater integrity within the menstrual product industry. Our bodies deserve nothing less.
Let’s embrace this moment to redefine how we approach menstrual health—choosing products that not only meet our needs but also reflect our values. Together, we can foster a future where safety, sustainability, and transparency are the cornerstones of menstrual care.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412024004355
