The FDA Is Investigating Heavy Metals in Tampons

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has launched an investigation into the potential health risks associated with toxic heavy metals found in tampons.

This comes after a recent study revealed the presence of metals such as lead and arsenic in tampons sold by multiple brands. (The study did not specific which brands they tested.)

The FDA aims to determine whether these metals could be absorbed by the body and, if so, what health effects they may cause.

Why the FDA Is Investigating

The FDA’s decision follows a study published in July 2024, which found trace amounts of heavy metals in both organic and non-organic tampons.

The study, conducted by researchers from the University of California, Berkeley, examined 30 tampons from 14 popular brands across the U.S., U.K., and Greece. Metals detected included lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury, among others.

Key findings from the study:
- All 30 tampons tested contained detectable amounts of lead.
- Organic tampons had more arsenic, while non-organic tampons contained higher levels of lead.
- The concentrations of lead in the tampons were approximately 10 times higher than the maximum levels allowed in drinking water by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
- Arsenic levels were significantly lower.

This is apparently the first time tampons have even been tested for heavy metals.

The FDA’s Plan

After this study was published and its results swept headlines, the FDA has commissioned two studies: an independent literature review and an internal laboratory study.

These studies will attempt to:

Determine whether metals are absorbed through the vaginal lining and enter the bloodstream.
Assess the potential risks associated with long-term tampon use in a “worst-case scenario”.
Use conditions that mimic real-world tampon use to gauge metal release.

Heavy Metals and Health Risks

Heavy metals such as lead and arsenic have long been associated with numerous health risks. Exposure to even small amounts of these metals over time can cause serious health problems, including:

Lead exposure:
- Reproductive issues, such as decreased fertility
- Cognitive and neurological damage, especially during fetal development

Arsenic exposure:
- Linked to various cancers, including bladder and lung
- Causes skin lesions, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes with long-term exposure

The vaginal lining is particularly permeable, which means that chemicals and metals may be absorbed more readily than in other parts of the body.

Unfortunately, it simply hasn’t been studied before now.

Current Regulations and Public Concerns

Tampons are currently regulated as medical devices by the FDA, which means manufacturers must meet specific safety standards before their products can be sold in the U.S.

There are currently some standards on tampons that have to do with allergens and microbiological safety, there are no mandatory tests for heavy metals in tampons.

This investigation could theoretically lead to more stringent regulations.

Several lawmakers, including members of the Democratic Women’s Caucus, have urged the FDA to take swift action to address these concerns. A letter from four female Democratic representatives emphasized that people who menstruate use around 7,400 tampons during their reproductive years, making the potential for long-term exposure significant.

What You Can Do

Although the levels of heavy metals in tampons are generally low, you may choose to decrease how much you use them (at least for now).

Here are some practical steps you can take to reduce potential exposures:

Limit tampon use time: Avoid wearing tampons for more than eight hours at a time, as this can not only reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome but also limit potential exposure to harmful substances.

Go for organic & transparent brands: Even though heavy metals were also found in organic tampons, I’d still argue that organic, non-plastic, and minimally-processed tampons are still better than conventional ones because there are less toxic chemicals overall (like phthalates, etc.)
- Additionally, some states like New York and California have introduced laws requiring tampon manufacturers to disclose ingredients. Opt for brands that are transparent about their product contents, particularly in terms of chemical additives and potential contaminants.

Alternate with other menstrual products: Consider alternating tampons with other products such as menstrual cups, organic cotton pads, or period underwear to reduce the overall number of tampons used.