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A recent study led by a researcher from UC Berkeley has found that tampons from various brands used by millions of people each month may contain toxic metals such as lead , arsenic , and cadmium . This discovery raises concerns as the skin in the vaginal area has a higher potential for chemical absorption , making tampons a possible source of exposure to harmful substances . The study revealed that concentrations of these toxic metals were present in all types of tampons tested , with lead being higher in non - organic tampons and arsenic in organic ones.

Metals like lead and arsenic have been linked to health risks such as dementia , infertility , diabetes , and cancer , affecting vital organs and systems in the body . The presence of these toxic metals in menstrual products poses potential health risks to women who use them . Despite the widespread use of tampons , very little research has been done to measure chemicals in these products until now . The study highlighted the need for manufacturers to test their products for toxic metals and for better labeling on menstrual products to inform consumers of potential risks.

The study evaluated levels of 16 metals in tampons from 14 different brands and found that all types of tampons tested contained varying concentrations of these metals . The researchers discovered that metals could have entered tampons through absorption by cotton plants from water , air , or soil , intentional addition during manufacturing processes , or cross - contamination from other factory processes . The potential exposure to these toxic metals through tampons is concerning , especially since a large percentage of women use tampons on a monthly basis for several hours at a time.

While the study raised alarms about the presence of toxic metals in tampons , experts cautioned against panicking as more research is needed to determine if these metals can leach out of tampons and be absorbed by the body . The thin tissue in the vaginal area could provide an easy pathway for these substances to enter the body , but there is currently no evidence that the metals would leech into menstrual blood and cause harm . The study also did not name specific brands or types of tampons with lower metal levels , emphasizing the importance of future research to evaluate potential health risks associated with metal exposure through menstrual products.

In addition to toxic metals , recent investigations have also suggested that tampons could contain harmful substances such as perfluoroalkyl substances ( PFAS ) or forever chemicals . These chemicals , known for their persistent nature and links to various health issues , have been found in some tampons sold in the US , prompting concerns about potential risks to women 's health . The presence of these chemicals , along with toxic metals , in menstrual products underscores the importance of further research and regulation to ensure the safety of Feminine hygiene products for women 's health and well - being.