The Feminine Hygiene Time Bomb is Ticking
So you buy organic foods and exercise to keep healthy - but what about the actual contents of feminine hygiene products - do we give them a second thought?
Tampons, sanitary pads and panty liners can contain potentially toxic ingredients such as pesticides and genetically modified organisms. The worst part is, the manufacturers don't even have to tell us. Feminine hygiene products can fast-track potentially harmful chemicals into our bloodstream where they are absorbed into our body. Potentially these chemicals can then go directly to our delicate organs. We already know that there is a correlation between the use of talcum powder and ovarian cancer so we know that our pelvic organs can absorb toxins[1]. Manufacturers of tampons, sanitary towels and panty liners don't have to list the ingredients they use and this could be exposing us to harmful plasticizing chemicals, dioxins, synthetic fibres and petrochemical additives. Plasticising chemicals have been linked to endocrine disorders and disease processes linked with heart disease and cancer.
Did You Know?
- One conventional sanitary pad contains the equivalent of about four plastic bags
- Tampons contain pesticides used in the production of cotton
- Tampons, sanitary pads and odour 'control' panty-liners contain artificial fragrances with artificial colours as well as polyester, adhesives, polyethylene (PET), polypropylene and propylene glycol (PEG). These contaminants have been linked to hormone disruption, cancer, birth defects, vaginal dryness, and infertility.[2]
Which Feminine Hygiene Products Can You Choose To Avoid Toxin Exposure?
If you normally use tampons you could try sponge tampons instead. Natural sponge ones such as Sea Pearls Natural Sponge Tampons are best. Buy tampons & sanitary towels made from organic cotton - look for Natracare products. Use Mooncup, Femmecup Menstrual Cup, Lelo Intimina Lily Menstrual Cup or other Menstrual Cups. Not only will you save yourself money you are protecting your health and the environment too! If you use panty-liners because of bladder weakness, start exercising with a Kegel8 Electronic Pelvic Floor Exerciser and you could be panty-pad free within weeks - now that is good for your health!