A recent pivotal study from the UC Berkeley School of Public Health revealed disturbing truths: tampons contain toxic metals like lead, arsenic, and cadmium. The study, led by Berkeley researcher Jenni A. Shearston and published in Environment International, has shaken the menstrual product industry and alarmed consumers. Given that tampons are a go-to for millions during their menstrual cycles, these findings are particularly worrisome; highlighting a glaring gap in regulation and testing within the disposable period product industry.
Rethinking Menstrual Products
In response to these revelations, it's crucial to reassess menstrual product choices for the sake of personal health. Luckily, there are safer and more sustainable alternatives available, such as menstrual discs and menstrual cups.
Unlike tampons, which may contain metals from their production process, menstrual discs and cups are crafted from 100% medical-grade silicone. These materials are rigorously tested to ensure they are free from toxic substances, providing peace of mind to users. In addition, cups and discs such as those from Saalt are biocompatible. Biocompatibility is the response to biomaterial (silicone discs or cups) which ensures the absence of various local and systemic toxicities and irritants. By not being toxic, they do not cause immunological rejection or physiological reactions.
Other Benefits of Menstrual Cups and Discs
The advantages of menstrual cups and discs go beyond safety. These reusable products significantly reduce environmental waste compared to disposable tampons and pads. With proper care, a single Saalt menstrual cup can last up to 10 years, thereby minimizing the environmental footprint.
Practically, menstrual discs and cups can hold more fluid and can be worn for up to 12 hours without needing to be changed. This longer wear time enhances convenience and reduces the frequency of changes, which in turn lessens exposure to bacteria from unclean hands or surfaces.
Empowering Consumers and Pushing for Accountability
The move towards menstrual cups and discs is not just about personal health—it’s about demanding transparency and accountability from manufacturers. The UC Berkeley study highlights the urgent need for better regulation and testing of menstrual products, ensuring consumers are fully informed about what they are using.
As awareness of the potential risks associated with tampons grows, more people are turning to alternatives like menstrual cups, menstrual discs, and PFAS-free period underwear. These products empower users to take control of their menstrual health while aligning with their values. It’s a push towards products that prioritize safety, sustainability, and transparency.
Embracing a Healthier Future
While the findings of the UC Berkeley study are unsettling, they also offer a chance for positive change. By choosing period cups, menstrual discs, and leakproof panties over traditional tampons, individuals can make a proactive decision for their health and advocate for greater integrity within the menstrual product industry. Our bodies deserve nothing less.
Let's seize this moment to redefine menstrual health, opting for products that meet our needs and reflect our values. Together, we can create a future where safety, sustainability, and transparency are the foundations of menstrual care.
UC Berkeley Study on Toxic Metals in Tampons
Environment International Publication
Original Source: https://bit.ly/45ZNG9J
About Saalt
Saalt is a sustainable period care brand working to support everyone who menstruates. They dedicate themselves to creating clean, high-performance products that are better for you and the planet. Their ethically made period cups and period underwear are for professional athletes, office workers, adventurers, and those new to their cycle. For a process that is natural and essential, Saalt offers something just as natural and straightforward.