What do arsenic, nickel, and lead have in common? According to recent studies, these metals are all found in tampons, a feminine hygiene product used by millions across the U.S. and internationally. In a recent research article authored by members of Columbia University, the University of California Berkeley and Michigan State University, researchers tested material pulled from 18 different brands of tampons, sampling 30 tampons in total to determine the presence of 16 different metals. Those metals were arsenic, barium, calciumcadmium, cobalt, chromium, copper, iron, manganese, mercury, nickel, lead, selenium, strontium, vanadium, and zinc; these metals vary in toxicity, with some requiring large concentrations such as zinc and others being toxic in incredibly small concentrations such as lead.
The result of the research lead to a striking realization; the researchers concluded that “measurable concentrations of all 16 metals” were found. While the extent of absorption into the body is still unclear, the researchers indicate that “Tampon use is a potential source of metal exposure.” While the results of the study have been made public, the brands tested have yet to be revealed; this decision left many brands to the court of public opinion, with many releasing statements shortly after publication.
This decision, however, could have the consequence of leaving many consumers unsure as to which tampons they should be using. Dr. Denise Gonzalez, an anatomy professor on campus, talked about what these chemicals could do to the body. “Some of those chemicals, if they do get into the blood, they can have disastrous effects on the body.” These chemicals vary in their effects on the body, but regarding how tampons are used, they are in contact with one of the most absorptive areas of the body. Dr. Gonzalez explains how this creates a problem.
“Those are the first ones (cells) that are going to be exposed to those chemicals at the highest levels.” Because of this, these chemicals have easier access to the body. This, however, is compounded by the nature of the chemicals assessed. “Some chemicals go right through the skin…so it doesn’t matter how many layers,” Dr. Gonzalez said.
Regarding staying informed however, Dr. Gonzalez argues that it is the responsibility of those who understand the effects of these substances to inform the public. “The average person is not gonna know. You can give them the information, but they don’t know what to do with it.” As well as this, the issue has not received much in the way of coverage. While the initial publishing of the article was breaking news nationwide, follow-up coverage has been minimal. Dr. Gonzalez shares the reason. “Less than 50% of the population uses tampons. The less population is affected by something, the less attention its gonna get.”
When asked how to best inform the public on these kinds of problems, Dr. Gonzalez said, “The more information we can get out to people, the better they can make informed decisions.” The publication of this information made the public aware of the danger these products posed, causing outroar and prompting regulation on their production.
