“Tampons = danger”: is this statement actually true?
Are tampons dangerous? Myth or reality? Are these little pieces of cotton completely harmless? Do the tampons we use during our periods pose any risks or dangers to our health?
In recent years, various news articles, investigations and scandals have raised the alarm about the composition of certain menstrual products. The use of tampons has been called into question.
Are tampons really dangerous for our health? What are the actual risks when using tampons? Is there a way to use them safely? What other menstrual products can replace them? What are the healthier, more interesting alternatives for women and teen girls?
Louloucup is taking a closer look at this big question today and trying to offer some answers.
Tampons: a very common internal period product, not without risks
The tampon is, or rather was, a key period and hygiene product, used by many women and girls during their menstruation. It is an internal sanitary protection inserted at the entrance of the vagina to block the menstrual flow so it doesn’t leak.
The small tampon expands on contact with the flow. Highly absorbent, it soaks up blood and can be removed using a string that sticks out.
Very practical, many women use tampons for various reasons:
- because they’re cheap, a box of tampons doesn’t cost much,
- they don’t want to see blood, some can’t stand the sight of blood,
- tampons are ideal for a pool session or an afternoon at the beach, as they let you swim without risk of leaks.
However, their composition has been criticized. Simply put, until very recently, brands and manufacturers were not required to disclose the composition of tampons. So women used these products every month without knowing exactly what they were inserting into their vaginas.
Disposable tampons: a composition that’s increasingly criticized and called into question
For several years now, it has been known that conventional tampons and sanitary pads contain harmful chemicals and toxic substances for a woman’s body and intimate health.
Traces of dioxins, pesticides, halogenated derivatives, phthalates, and derivatives of aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are notably present in tampons and pads. Chlorine dioxide is also used to bleach tampons.
These harmful substances, even in tiny amounts, are concerning and can accumulate cycle after cycle in the vagina. The risks are therefore real for the vaginal flora and a woman’s intimate health.
These worrying chemical compounds can have carcinogenic, mutagenic, or reprotoxic effects. They are also considered endocrine disruptors.
The raw materials used in tampons are believed to be the main cause. The cotton and cotton derivatives used to make tampons are contaminated by pesticides.
Add to that the chlorine agents used to bleach the tampon. The presence of PAHs (hydrocarbons), normally found in diesel engines or cigarette smoke, is explained by the manufacturing methods.
Tampons: what are the health risks?
The composition of tampons is worrying. What are the real health risks? What are you risking by using a tampon?
Irritation, allergies, dryness
The chemicals found in tampons can disrupt the vaginal flora. For the most sensitive women, this can cause irritation and burning sensations.
Wearing tampons can also cause dryness and intimate or vaginal irritation.
Tampons and toxic shock syndrome (TSS)
TSS, or toxic shock syndrome, is a rare but serious infection that can occur in women during their period. This syndrome can only develop if the woman carries S. aureus bacteria. Not all women have this bacterium in their bodies.
This bacterium, part of the Staphylococcus aureus family, can “wake up” in a very specific environment: menstrual blood that has stagnated too long in the vagina. This is the perfect environment for the bacteria to produce TSST‑1 toxins. These toxins then target the organs and can have very serious consequences: damage to vital organs, limb amputations, even death.
As you’ve probably understood, the bacteria develop if blood is not removed regularly. A tampon that stays in the vagina for too long can therefore trigger toxic shock. That’s why it’s essential to change tampons very regularly — ideally every 4 hours.
The symptoms of toxic shock syndrome are similar to those of the flu or gastroenteritis, so you need to be careful: headaches, dizziness, diarrhea, vomiting, high fever, muscle pain.
Tampons: usage tips
Some tips for using a tampon safely:
- read the instructions for use carefully;
- wash your hands thoroughly before and after inserting and removing a tampon;
- change them regularly and respect the recommended wear time : no more than 4 to 6 hours ;
- do not sleep with a tampon in;
- do not wear a tampon “just in case.” Wait until your period actually starts.
Effective, economical and practical alternatives to tampons
Even though tampons still seem unbeatable despite the scandals, there are just as practical alternatives! Reusable pads, period underwear and menstrual cups are durable, eco‑friendly, healthy menstrual products that are increasingly easy to find.
These greener options are also more reliable and healthier, while being highly effective and very absorbent. With their fully transparent compositions and organic, certified raw materials, you’re making a more conscious, responsible and body‑friendly choice.
To choose the right product, you first need to know yourself and understand your menstrual flow. That way, you can pick the products that suit you best and the right level of absorbency.
To help you choose the best period underwear for your profile, your flow and your habits, you can refer to our articles:
If you like internal protection and want to know more about our Loulou menstrual cup made in France, super soft and very easy to wear, you can find plenty of information by reading our articles:
- Menstrual cup sizes: how to choose?
- What’s the story behind our Made in France menstrual cup?
- How do you use a menstrual cup?
To avoid any risk of TSS, to say no to controversial substances, and to finally respect your vaginal flora, say a big yes to sustainable and responsible protections.
