Tampons: What are the risks and how can you avoid them?
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Time to read 9 min
Sanitary tampons have been one of the most widely used menstrual products for decades. Convenient and discreet, they let you experience your period with a certain freedom of movement.
However, we’re hearing more and more about the potential risks associated with their use. What are the real dangers of tampons? How can you use them safely? What are healthy alternatives to traditional tampons?
Let's talk about tampon ingredients, the risk of developing allergies, infections, or toxic shock syndrome—let's cover all the dangers of disposable cotton tampons. Louloucup also offers clear and healthy alternatives that are just as practical as tampons and much better for your health and intimate well-being.
In this article, you'll find...
I - Tampons: Shocking Ingredients ⚠️ What are conventional tampons made of? II - The main dangers of tampons: what are the health risks? Best practices for use Safer, healthier tampon choices When should you see a doctor? 🩺 IV - Clean alternatives to traditional tampons 🌱 Period panties or menstrual briefs Washable pads V - How to smoothly transition to healthier alternatives? 🌿 💗 Make informed choices for your intimate health FAQ: tampons and risks
I - Tampons: Shocking Ingredients ⚠️
What are conventional tampons made of?
Traditional disposable tampons are generally made of:
- conventional cotton fibers (often treated with pesticides and herbicides),
- synthetic fibers (viscose, rayon),
artificial fragrances (in scented versions), - plastic for the applicator and packaging,
- Potential residues of dioxins and furans (linked to the chlorine bleaching process).
This composition raises several health concerns, especially due to prolonged contact with vaginal mucous membranes, which are particularly permeable to chemicals.
Exposure to toxic substances
Conventional sanitary tampons can contain highly concerning chemical residues:
- Dioxins: produced during chlorine bleaching, these substances are classified as probable carcinogens by the WHO.
- Pesticides: found in non-organic cotton, pesticides are used in crops to kill invasive insects.
- synthetic fragrances: potentially allergenic and endocrine disruptors,
- Phthalates: found in some plastic applicators.
These substances, even in small amounts, can build up in the body after regular use over several decades.
Louloucup recommends...
- The ultra-soft Turquoise Louloucup!
- Available in two sizes: S and M.
- Extra flexible, it’s very easy to insert.
- Suitable for all menstrual flows.
- Ideally replaces tampons at the pool or during sports.
"The turquoise Louloucup is very soft and flexible, so it’s super comfortable. Amazing experience ☺️" - Marielle P.
II - The main dangers of tampons: what are the health risks?
Microtrauma and dryness
Tampons, especially those with high absorbency, can soak up not only menstrual blood but also your vagina’s natural moisture, which can lead to:
- uncomfortable vaginal dryness,
- tiny micro-lesions during insertion or removal (especially if the tampon isn’t saturated enough),
- an increased risk of vaginal infections.
Regular and repeated use of disposable tampons can disrupt vaginal flora, cause vaginal dryness, and lead to irritation. This dryness then weakens the mucous membrane’s natural defenses. The vagina becomes more sensitive and fragile, making it easier to develop allergies, reactions, or local infections.
Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)
The most well-known and serious risk associated with tampons is toxic shock syndrome (TSS). This rare but potentially fatal infectious disease (about twenty cases per year) is caused by the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria and affects menstruating women. The bacteria can thrive in the environment created by a tampon that’s been worn too long.
Toxic shock syndrome, also known as tampon disease, is triggered and promoted by stagnant blood in the vagina. That’s why women are encouraged to change their tampons regularly and not leave them in too long (no more than six hours).
TSS symptoms include:
a sudden high fever (102°F/39°C or higher),
a rash that looks like sunburn,
intense headaches,
muscle pain,
vomiting and diarrhea,
a drop in blood pressure,
a confused state.
The toxins released are dangerous and poison the blood, attacking the organs. If you have any doubts, go to the ER right away.
Good to know: TSS can only develop in women who carry S. Aureus bacteria (group A staphylococcus aureus). About 1% of women have these specific bacteria in their vagina.
III - How to reduce risks when using tampons? 🛡️
Fortunately, there are several ways to minimize the risks associated with tampons while still enjoying their convenience:
Best practices for use
Respect the maximum wear time: never exceed 4 to 6 hours, and avoid wearing a tampon overnight.
Choose the absorbency that matches your flow: always use the minimum absorbency you need.
Wash your hands before inserting and after removing it.
Change your tampon regularly, even if it isn’t completely saturated.
Alternate with other types of protection, especially at night (pad, underwear).
Remove your tampon immediately at the end of your period.
Safer, healthier tampon choices
100% certified organic cotton tampons (GOTS, Ecocert),
tampons without fragrance or dyes,
tampons bleached without chlorine (usually labeled "TCF" - Totally Chlorine Free),
brands that are transparent about their ingredients.
Attention
These healthier tampons significantly reduce exposure to potentially dangerous chemicals, but they don’t completely eliminate the risk of toxic shock syndrome.
When should you see a doctor? 🩺
It’s important to see a healthcare professional promptly in the following situations:
- If you have symptoms that may indicate toxic shock syndrome (high fever, rash, severe headaches).
- If you feel pain, burning, or vaginal irritation during or after using a tampon.
- If you notice any abnormal vaginal discharge, bleeding between periods, or an unusual odor.
- If you forgot a tampon for more than 8 hours.
- If you can't remove a tampon.
IV - Clean alternatives to traditional tampons 🌱
With concerns about tampons on the rise, many healthier and more eco-friendly alternatives have emerged in recent years. These washable, durable, eco-friendly, and reusable menstrual products have reassuring ingredients that are good for your health—so don’t hesitate!
The menstrual cup or period cup
The menstrual cup is a small, flexible cup made of medical-grade silicone that collects menstrual flow instead of absorbing it. Like a tampon, it’s an internal protection. It’s invisible and super discreet. It collects blood very effectively—even with heavy flows.
Benefits of menstrual cups:
- can be worn for up to 6 hours (like a tampon),
- Reusable for 5 to 10 years,
very cost-effective, - Internal protection but with a significantly reduced risk of TSS,
- without harmful chemicals,
- Zero waste and eco-friendly.
Drawbacks of menstrual cups:
- requires a learning curve at first,
- requires access to a water source for cleaning.
Did you know?
Louloucup cups are available in two sizes (small and medium) and two firmness levels (Turquoise, which is softer, or Pink, which is firmer) to suit all body types and needs.
Period panties or menstrual briefs
The period panty looks just like regular underwear, but features absorbent technology that collects your flow without feeling wet. Super discreet, it doesn’t bulk up. Made from organic cotton, it’s soft and ultra-comfortable. And the Louloucup period panty is cute—you’ll actually enjoy wearing it!
Benefits of period panties:
- extremely comfortable and discreet (some are seamless),
- without chemicals (if it’s high quality),
- reusable like regular underwear (up to 5 years),
- zero risk of TSS,
- easy to use, even for beginners,
- ideal for nighttime or sports activities.
Drawbacks of period underwear:
- You’ll need several pairs to get through your whole cycle,
- higher initial investment than for the cup,
- Requires rinsing and washing after use.
Did you know?
Our Louloucup period underwear range offers different absorbency levels and styles to fit every menstrual flow (light, regular, heavy, very heavy) and every body type (from XXS to 5XL).
Washable pads
Washable pads (or SHLs) are made from absorbent fabric, usually organic cotton, and snap onto your underwear. They’re pretty practical, absorbent, and comfortable.
The benefits of SHL:
- very gentle on the skin,
- without chemicals,
- Reusable for 5 to 7 years,
- zero risk of TSS,
- wide range of sizes and absorbencies.
The downsides of reusable menstrual pads:
- bulkier than tampons,
- need to be carried after use (waterproof pouch),
- require regular care.
V - How to smoothly transition to healthier alternatives? 🌿
Here are some tips to gradually transition from conventional tampons to healthier menstrual products:
Start with nighttime: first, swap out your overnight tampons for a period panty or washable pad. You’ll see—you’ll sleep peacefully with no leaks or stains on your pajamas.
Take it step by step: alternate between organic tampons and reusable protection before fully making the switch.
Build up your collection gradually: assemble your set of reusable protections over several months to spread out the investment. This also gives you time to get used to your new period products.
Try different options: every body is unique, so take the time to discover what works best for you—cup, period underwear, reusable pad, the choice is yours! Choose based on your activities, too: at home, you can wear comfy underwear; at the pool or while playing sports, you might prefer a cup.
Listen to your body: notice how it reacts to the change (less irritation, dryness, etc.) and fully enjoy gentle, organic alternatives!
💗 Make informed choices for your intimate health
In conclusion, we want to remind you that the composition of tampons is indisputable. You’ll find just about everything you don’t want in a little tampon: harmful chemicals, toxic substances, traces of chlorine dioxins, pesticides, halogenated derivatives, phthalates, and aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
Sanitary tampons pose health risks that shouldn’t be ignored. You can significantly reduce these risks by following good usage practices and choosing higher-quality menstrual products.
Today, reusable and washable menstrual products like cups and period underwear offer compelling alternatives that combine safety, comfort, savings, and environmental friendliness. These modern options let you manage your period with peace of mind, free from worries about toxic substances or toxic shock syndrome.
Remember, every body is unique—what works perfectly for one woman might not be ideal for another. Take the time to explore different options to find what truly suits you. Be patient with yourself.
All women deserve healthy menstrual products that are comfortable and respectful of their bodies and the planet.
Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or are looking for personalized advice to make your transition to a healthier, more peaceful period.
Your intimate health is worth far more than just the convenience of a product—it deserves your full attention! 🌸
Louloucup recommends...
FAQ: tampons and risks
Do organic tampons also carry a risk of toxic shock syndrome?
Yes, even 100% organic cotton tampons carry a risk of toxic shock syndrome, though possibly lower. The composition isn’t the only risk factor: how long you wear it and creating an environment that allows bacteria to grow are also important. So, it’s essential to follow the same hygiene and wear-time rules as with conventional tampons.
Is it true that tampons contain asbestos?
No, this is a persistent but unfounded rumor. No tampon manufacturer adds asbestos to their products. However, it is true that conventional tampons may contain other concerning substances such as pesticide residues, dioxins, or synthetic fragrances.
How often should I change my tampon?
It’s recommended to change your tampon every 4 to 6 hours at most, even if it’s not fully saturated. At night, it’s best to use a non-internal period product like period underwear or a washable pad to avoid exceeding this time limit.
How do I know if I have toxic shock syndrome?
TSS symptoms usually come on suddenly and include a high fever, a sunburn-like rash, severe headaches, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches, and a general feeling of being unwell. If you experience these symptoms during your period, remove your tampon immediately and go to the emergency room without delay.
Are period underwear really as effective as tampons?
Yes, high-quality period underwear like Louloucup’s is designed to offer protection equal to or even better than tampons, even for heavy flows. Our high-absorption models can hold the equivalent of 3 to 5 tampons while staying comfortable and dry. Plus, they often provide better leak protection than tampons.
