Article by: Andy, Femvie ambassador
Did you know that regular tampons or pads can contain chemicals that affect not only your health but also the planet? Many women don't realize what's hidden in the menstrual products they use every month. As a laboratory technician and a student of cosmetic and hygiene products, I wanted to find out what exactly comes into contact with our bodies and why it's better to choose an organic alternative.
I've always been fascinated by how the human body works and how it's affected by the substances that surround us every day. I'm a trained laboratory technician and I'm currently studying pharmacy with a focus on cosmetic and hygiene products. I'm particularly interested in the chemistry that comes into direct contact with our bodies – and that's what today's article will be about.
What common menstrual products are made of
Let's start from the beginning. If you use pads or tampons, it's worth knowing what they're actually made of. Most of these products are composed of cotton, viscose, and various synthetic and semi-synthetic fibers, so their production requires a relatively large number of plants. However, these plants can be treated with pesticides during cultivation or come into contact with them from the surrounding environment. At the same time, they grow in soil that commonly contains heavy metals. It can therefore be said that they come into contact with substances that can be potentially harmful to the human body already during growth.
We are talking mainly about three groups of substances:
-
Heavy metals – such as arsenic, barium, or cobalt. They can be found in water, air, or soil and, with long-term exposure, pose serious health risks to our health (for example, an increased risk of diabetes, organ damage, or fertility problems).
-
Pesticides – the most widespread of which is glyphosate, used in crop cultivation. In recent years, however, it has been receiving increasing attention due to possible carcinogenic effects, and its use is therefore gradually being restricted.
-
Chlorine – used for bleaching menstrual products. This process can produce dioxin, a substance that can accumulate in the body. Dioxins are considered carcinogenic and can also contribute to other health complications.
In short, we have summarized what substances can appear in menstrual products and where they come from. During her lifetime, a menstruating person uses approximately 11,000 pads or tampons, which means that our body comes into contact with these materials very often.
|
Both vulvar (external) and vaginal (internal) mucous membranes are composed of a thin layer of cells called epithelium, beneath which lies connective tissue and a dense network of tiny veins. A protective mucus is produced on their surface. Although these body parts are not primarily designed for substance absorption, research shows that a certain amount of chemicals can be absorbed through the mucous membrane into the bloodstream – and thus into the entire body. |
Unfortunately, the female body is still not sufficiently researched, and so studies that would precisely show in what quantity and in what way these potentially harmful substances can be absorbed through the mucous membrane are only just emerging. Nevertheless, we should talk about this topic – after all, it concerns our health.
The aim of this article is certainly not to scare anyone. But it is important to talk about these things and spread awareness so that each of us can choose how to deal with this information. You don't have to run out and throw away all the tampons you have at home right away – the most important thing is to know what your options are.
You could, for example, try combining regular products with organic ones, which are not bleached with chlorine and come from cotton grown without pesticides. Or you could try menstrual underwear. It's up to you what you find most comfortable and what you want to provide for your body.
This article is based on the author's personal experience and does not serve as medical advice.
Looking for a space where you can openly talk about women's health? Join our new Facebook community – a place for sharing experiences, understanding your own body, and mutual support. Whether you're dealing with endometriosis, PCOS, PMS, or going through menopause, you're not alone.❤️
What else to read on Femspace?
- The menstrual cycle from the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine
- Hormonal contraception through the eyes of a woman with endometriosis
- How safe are Femvie organic cotton tampons?
- 8 myths and stereotypes about menstruation
- 7 tips for women's intimate hygiene
- Rash from pads: What causes it and how to avoid it
- 5 tips to prevent blood leakage and how to best manage the situation
- Spotting and bleeding outside of menstruation
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram to always be the first to know about all the news on the Femspace blog or on the Femvie e-shop!
Femvie products that can help you
We have selected products related to this topic that can support your health:
- 🌿 Organic pads — certified organic pads without chemicals
- 🌿 Organic tampons — organic tampons made from certified organic cotton
- 🌿 Ultra-thin organic panty liners — discreet protection for every day
- 📦 Worry-free subscription — your organic menstrual products automatically every month
- 🎁 Trial pack — try Femvie organic menstrual products
Frequently asked questions
What are organic menstrual products?
Organic menstrual products are made from certified organic cotton without pesticides, plastics, or bleaching chemicals. GOTS certification guarantees ecological processing from field to product.
Are organic tampons safer than conventional ones?
Yes. Conventional tampons may contain trace amounts of pesticides and synthetic fibers. Femvie organic tampons are certified, hypoallergenic, and gentler on intimate areas.
How does the Femvie subscription work?
With the Worry-free subscription, you set the delivery frequency, and your favorite organic products will arrive automatically. You save time and never run out of menstrual products.
