Study Finds Toxic Metals in Tampons

A new study led by a UC Berkeley researcher has recently found that tampons from various brands may contain toxic metals such as arsenic, lead, and cadmium. These metals are dangerous and can harm the millions of women who use tampons. 

This study was recently published in the journal Environment International. In this study, researchers studied 30 tampons that were from 14 different brands. Researchers mainly wanted to measure metals in tampons. 

When researchers observed the collected data, they found metals in all the tampons they tested. They found 16 metals such as arsenic, copper, iron, cadmium, manganese, mercury, nickel, lead, selenium, strontium, zinc, barium, calcium, cobalt, vanadium and chromium. Some of these metals such as lead and arsenic are harmful for human health and cause many health complications. 

Researchers also found that metal levels in tampons depend on some factors such as store or brand name, where they are bought in the US or UK, whether they are organic or non-organic. But all types of tampons contain metals, and none of them has lower metal concentrations.  

Metals can enter tampons in various ways. The cotton material of them can absorb metals from air, water, and nearby contaminants. Metals may also be intentionally added during manufacturing as part of certain processes or substances used in the factory. 

Tampons can expose women to many chemicals and metals. The skin of vagina can absorb these chemicals more easily than other parts of the body. Many women use tampons regularly. Almost 50-80% of women use them for several hours each month during their menstruation. 

These metals can cause many health problems such as infertility, dementia, and cancer. They can harm important organs like the kidneys, liver, and brain. They can also affect the nervous, endocrine and cardiovascular systems. Metals can be harmful to pregnant women and the development of their children.  

Researchers of this study said that manufacturers should test their products for metals that are toxic and harmful for human health. They also want better labeling on tampons and other menstrual products. 

The results of this study clearly show that tampons contain some metals. These metals can harm human health. They can increase the risk of many health complications such as infertility and cancer. Hence women should be very careful while using those tampons that contain higher levels of these metals. They can also choose other products to reduce these risks. This study is a very important step as it can save many lives.