11 Best Non-Toxic Tampon Brands | 100% Organic

What harmful chemicals can be found in most tampons?

Dioxins:

Dioxins are byproducts of the chlorine bleaching process used to whiten tampons. They’re created when chlorine reacts with organic materials like wood pulp or cotton. The problem with dioxins is that they’re highly toxic and can accumulate in your body over time. 

Studies have linked dioxin exposure to cancer, hormone disruption, and reproductive issues like endometriosis and decreased fertility.

Pesticide Residues:

Conventionally grown cotton is often heavily sprayed with pesticides, which can leave residues on the cotton fibers used to make tampons. Some of these pesticides, like glyphosate and trifluralin, are potential carcinogens and endocrine disruptors. 

When you use tampons made from conventionally grown cotton, these pesticide residues can be absorbed directly into your bloodstream through the delicate vaginal tissue.

Plastics and Plasticizers:

Many tampons contain plastic components like polyester fibers, polypropylene liners, and plastic applicators. These plastics can contribute to environmental pollution and may also leach harmful chemicals like phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA) into your body. 

Phthalates and BPA are known endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with your body’s hormonal balance and have been linked to issues like early puberty, reproductive problems, and even certain types of cancer.

Synthetic Fragrances:

Scented tampons may seem like a nice idea, but the reality is that the fragrance ingredients used in these products can be a major source of irritation and health issues. Many fragrance chemicals are allergens and can cause skin irritation, rashes, and even difficulty breathing in some people. 

Plus, some fragrance ingredients like phthalates and synthetic musks are also endocrine disruptors, meaning they can mess with your hormones and potentially lead to long-term health problems.

Parabens:

Parabens are preservatives used in some tampons to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold. While that might sound like a good thing, the problem is that parabens can also mimic estrogen in the body and have been linked to hormone disruption. 

Some studies have even found traces of parabens in breast cancer tumors, leading many experts to question their safety.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs):

VOCs are a group of chemicals that can easily evaporate at room temperature, and they’re often used in the manufacturing of tampons and other personal care products. Some common VOCs found in tampons include methylene chloride, toluene, and xylene. 

These chemicals can cause short-term health effects like eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, and nausea, as well as long-term effects like liver and kidney damage, and even cancer.

The really scary thing about all of these chemicals is that they’re being absorbed directly into some of the most sensitive and absorbent tissue in our bodies. The vaginal wall is highly permeable, meaning that chemicals can easily pass through and enter the bloodstream. 

This direct absorption route means that even low levels of exposure can add up over time and potentially lead to serious health problems down the road.

How do I choose the right non toxic tampons?

Selecting the Correct Absorbency

The key to finding your perfect non-toxic tampon match is all about absorbency. You want to make sure you’re using a tampon that can handle your flow without leaving you feeling like you’re sitting in a puddle. 

If you have a lighter flow, opt for a tampon with a lower absorbency level (think: 6 grams or less). 

For those regular flow days, a tampon that can hold 6-9 grams of liquid should do the trick. 

And if you’re dealing with a heavy flow, you may need to bring in the big guns with a super or super-plus tampon that can handle 9-12 grams or more.

Other Factors to Consider

But absorbency isn’t the only thing to keep in mind when shopping for non-toxic tampons. You’ll also want to consider factors like applicator style. Do you prefer plastic, cardboard, or no applicator at all?

And don’t forget to check if the tampons and their packaging are biodegradable, because we all want to do our part to save the planet.

Benefits of Finding the Perfect Absorbency Level

Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Does absorbency really matter that much?” The answer is a resounding YES! Using a tampon with the right absorbency level for your flow is crucial for both your comfort and your safety. 

A tampon that’s too absorbent can leave you feeling dry and uncomfortable, while a tampon that’s not absorbent enough can lead to leaks and the dreaded “did I just sit in something wet?” feeling. 

Most importantly, using a tampon with the proper absorbency can help reduce your risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), as you’re less likely to leave it in for too long.