Due to its accessibility and simplicity, the menstrual hygiene sector, which is worth billions of dollars worldwide, has revolutionized women’s health. Nonetheless, a lot of women are still ignorant of the unspoken health hazards connected to tampons and sanitary pads. According to studies, these items frequently include dangerous chemicals and pollutants including phthalates, dioxins, and artificial perfumes that may be extremely damaging to one’s health. Protecting women’s health requires increasing awareness and looking for safer, sustainable alternatives.
Eight Health Hazards Linked to Tampons and Sanitary Pads
1. TSS, or toxic shock syndrome
Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), a rare but possibly deadly illness brought on by bacterial toxins, is one of the most dangerous dangers associated with using tampons. Long-term use of super-absorbent tampons creates the perfect conditions for germs to proliferate. Women are recommended to use tampons with lesser absorbency and to adhere to stringent cleanliness habits in order to reduce this risk.
2. Exposure to Chemicals
Frequently, bleaching procedures that introduce dangerous chemicals like chlorine and dioxins are used on sanitary pads and tampons. Dioxins have been identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as possible carcinogens, and repeated exposure may raise the chance of developing cancer. Choosing organic or unbleached menstruation products can drastically lower exposure to chemicals.
3. Skin irritation and allergic reactions
Sensitive skin may get irritated by the artificial perfumes, adhesives, and materials used in many period products. Women who have sensitive skin or allergies are especially at risk. These dangers can be reduced by using hypoallergenic and fragrance-free products.
4. Disruptions to Hormones
Period products occasionally include endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), such bisphenols and phthalates. Over time, these substances may cause reproductive problems by upsetting the hormonal balance and mimicking hormones. Avoiding exposure to EDCs can be achieved by switching to certified organic products.
5. Infection Risk
Urinary tract infections, yeast infections, and bacterial vaginosis can result from filthy menstruation products or poor hygiene habits. If not changed regularly, tampons in particular may raise the risk of bacterial transmission. Proper cleaning procedures and routine adjustments are essential.
6. Effects on the Environment
Menstrual products that are not biodegradable have a big impact on the environment. Over 12 billion pads are thrown away every year in India alone, and they take hundreds of years to break down. This environmental load can be lessened by switching to reusable alternatives like cloth pads and menstrual cups.
7. Risks of Cervical Cancer
Long-term exposure to chemicals included in menstruation products is thought to raise the risk of cervical cancer, while research is still underway. To lessen this possible risk, experts advise selecting minimally processed, chemical-free goods.
8. Inflammatory Disease of the Pelvic Region (PID)
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) may result from the prolonged use of tampons, which raises the possibility of bacterial migration to the reproductive organs. If left untreated, this illness can lead to long-term discomfort and problems with fertility.
Safer Substitutes for Traditional Menstruation Products
There are a number of safer, environmentally friendly substitutes for traditional items that solve the health and environmental issues they raise:
Cups for menstruation
Menstrual cups are reusable, chemical-free, and ecologically friendly because they are made of medical-grade silicone. They are a popular option since they lower waste and health dangers.
Tampons & Pads Made of Organic Cotton
These biodegradable alternatives offer a safer choice for period care because they are devoid of dangerous toxins.
Pads made of cloth
Cloth pads are affordable, long-lasting, and environmentally beneficial because they are washable and reusable.
Underwear for periods
Period underwear is a practical and environmentally friendly solution for controlling menstruation since it is made with layers of absorbent material.
Bamboo pads that may be reused
Another natural option with less effect on the environment is bamboo-based pads.
Shattering the Taboo and Putting Women’s Health First
Even though understanding of menstrual hygiene has increased, honest dialogue about menstruation is frequently impeded by cultural taboos. There may be little awareness of the possible dangers of traditional menstruation products as a result of this lack of communication.
In order to overcome these obstacles, we must work together to advance knowledge, encourage safer menstrual habits, and push for stronger laws governing the production of menstrual hygiene products. In addition to being a personal obligation, women’s health should be prioritized by society.
