Recent headlines have exposed a troubling reality: heavy metals and endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in our personal care products, including feminine hygiene items. These substances pose significant health risks, especially for women facing unique hormonal challenges.
The Toxic Reality
A study published in Environmental International and conducted by scientists from U.C. Berkeley, Columbia University, and Michigan State University evaluated 30 tampons from 14 different brands and 18 product lines. The study aimed to measure the presence of 16 metals.
Spoiler alert: toxic metals, like lead, were detectable in all samples, but we’ll dig into the specifics below, so read on!
It's beyond alarming to discover that products designed for our health and hygiene can actually undermine our well-being.
This groundbreaking research is the first of its kind to explore such contamination in these commonly used feminine hygiene products.
THE RESULTS:
The study revealed notable concentrations of 16 different metals, including:
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Lead
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Arsenic
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Cadmium
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Mercury
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Non-organic tampons showed higher levels of lead.
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Organic tampons had higher levels of arsenic.
Tampons, classified as medical devices, are not required to list their ingredients, making it challenging for consumers to know what they are using. The presence of these heavy metals is concerning due to their direct contact with sensitive and absorbent vaginal tissue, raising potential health risks. These metals can accumulate in the body over time, leading to severe health issues like hormonal imbalances, reproductive problems, and even cancer.
THE LIMITATIONS:While the study provides valuable insights, it has some limitations, which are worth noting:
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Sample Size: Only 30 tampons from 14 brands were tested. Larger-scale studies are needed for more generalizable results.
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Geographical Variability: Results may differ based on location and manufacturing processes.
It's worth noting that heavy metals are pervasive in our environment, including in foods like rice. However, considering the direct and prolonged exposure tampons have with highly absorbent vaginal tissue, the findings warrant caution.
Heavy metals in tampons can arise from two main sources:
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Intentionally: Through processes like whitening and using petroleum-derived dyes contaminated with heavy metals.
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Naturally: From heavy metals in the soil, which cotton plants bioaccumulate. While regenerative farming may help reduce this, it may also explain the higher arsenic levels in organic tampons, as organic farming avoids synthetic pesticides but cannot eliminate soil contamination.
So, what does this mean for you?
Should you be worried?
What are your alternatives?
Impact on Women's Health
For many women, exposure to these toxins can worsen existing health conditions or create new ones. Hormonal imbalances are a significant concern, leading to symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, weight gain, and mood swings. Women with hormonal conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are particularly vulnerable.
The Irony of Organic Products
In a surprising twist, the study's findings highlight an irony: organic tampons, often seen as a safer option, may not always be so. Organic tampons tend to be more expensive, with a 2017 Business Insider report noting that they cost 47% more per tampon than store brands. Many choose organic products under the belief they are safer, but this is not necessarily the case.
Organic tampons are made from cotton grown without synthetic pesticides and aren't bleached with chlorine, offering environmental benefits. However, no conclusive evidence shows that organic tampons are safer than regular ones. And now, these new findings of arsenic add even more concern.
Understanding Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs)
According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), EDCs are chemicals that can interfere with endocrine (or hormone) systems. These disruptions can cause cancerous tumors, birth defects, and other developmental disorders. The critical period of development for most organisms is during the transition from a fertilized egg into a fully formed infant. Studies have shown that EDCs can mimic or partially mimic naturally occurring hormones in the body, like estrogens and androgens, potentially producing overstimulation.
"EDCs can disrupt the endocrine system, leading to a multitude of health issues," notes the NIEHS.
For many women, exposure to these toxins can worsen existing health conditions or create new ones. Hormonal imbalances are a significant concern, leading to symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, weight gain, and mood swings. Women with hormonal conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are particularly vulnerable.
Common EDCs in Everyday Products
EDCs are prevalent in many everyday products. Some of the most common EDCs include:
- Phthalates: Found in plastics and personal care products.
- Bisphenol A (BPA): Present in plastic containers and the lining of cans.
- Parabens: Used as preservatives in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
- Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): Found in nonstick cookware, water-resistant clothing, and some food packaging.
- Pesticides: Such as organophosphates used in agriculture.
- Heavy metals: Including lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury.
- Brominated flame retardants and PFRs: Often found in furniture and electronic devices.
These chemicals can disrupt endocrine function, leading to potential health issues such as reproductive problems, developmental disorders, and even cancer.
For example, a 2014 study showed that BPA exposure can affect egg maturation and estrogen levels, while a 2017 study found that EDCs impact female reproduction.
A Natural Approach to Hormonal Balance
At Dr. Garber's, we aim to address health issues at their root. Our Fem Cycle bioformula was developed to support women dealing with hormonal imbalances. Dr. Garber originally formulated Fem Cycle for a patient with PCOS, a condition where the ovaries produce excessive male sex hormones, making conception difficult. Traditional hormone treatments were ineffective and caused unpleasant side effects.
"Hormone replacement therapy, whether bioidentical or synthetic, can be problematic because it interferes with the body's natural hormonal cascade. That's why I developed Fem Cycle—to help women’s bodies regulate their own hormones naturally," explains Dr. Garber.
Fem Cycle blends carefully selected biotherapies designed to support hormonal equilibrium without relying on synthetic hormones.
A Success Story
The effectiveness of Fem Cycle is highlighted by a heartfelt thank-you Dr. Garber received from the patient who inspired its creation. She sent him a Polaroid of an ultrasound, showcasing her long-awaited pregnancy, a testament to the power of natural, holistic health approaches.
"Receiving that ultrasound photo was one of the most rewarding moments of my career," says Dr. Garber.
That patient continued to take Fem Cycle and ended up carrying three pregnancies to term!
Fem Cycle has proven beneficial for a wide range of hormonal issues, from menstrual irregularities in young women to menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats.
Addressing the Broader Issue: The Historical Gaps in Women's Health Research
When it comes to women’s health and hormonal balance, there’s often a frustrating lag in research, testing, and safety measures. This issue has been highlighted by recent findings published in Environmental International, which as we mentioned, detected toxic heavy metals like arsenic and lead in commonly used tampons.
Often, concerns about these products are dismissed as fear-mongering, partly due to the limited research available. However, it's crucial to understand that comprehensive research on women's health only became a priority in 1986. Even today, it can take around 17 years for new research findings to influence product safety standards. This means that products may continue to use harmful chemicals long after their risks have been identified, which does not necessarily make them safe to use in the meantime.
Dr. Garber has focused on women's health throughout his career because most of his patients are women. Over time, he noticed a significant need for treatments that address hormonal imbalances naturally.
What Can You Do?
Here’s a practical approach to minimize exposure to harmful chemicals:
- Consider Opting for GOTS Certified Pads:
- Pads might still contain heavy metals and EDCs but at least lessen the impact by not being in direct contact with highly absorbable vaginal tissue. Look for GOTS certified brands that are organic and unscented, like Cora, Organic Mondays, and Natracare.
- Do a Home-Environment Sweep:
- Switch from non-stick pans to stainless steel.
- Choose unscented and EDC free laundry detergent.
- Go for Fragrance-Free Products and Read Labels:
- Avoid products with vague terms like "fragrance" or "parfum," which can hide a multitude of chemicals.
- Find Other Ways to Lower Your Toxic Burden:
- If getting rid of tampons sounds too overwhelming, consider other ways to reduce exposure, like shopping organic, changing your detergent, or switching shampoos and body washes. Small steps can have a big impact.
- Use a Natural Solution to Help Balance Hormones:
- Consider options like Dr. Garber’s Fem Cycle, which supports the body in naturally regulating hormone levels. This approach helps manage hormonal imbalances without resorting to synthetic hormones and potentially nasty side effects.
Putting It All Together
As we become more educated as consumers, pushing for transparent product testing and opting for safer choices can help minimize potential health risks.
While more studies need to be done, it’s advisable to err on the side of caution when it comes to personal care products for intimate parts of our bodies.
Choosing personal care products wisely is deeper than just convenience—it's crucial for maintaining long-term hormonal health and fertility.
Understanding the effects of heavy metals and endocrine-disrupting chemicals allows us to make better decisions for our health and the environment.
Thank you for joining me in this first installment of our Women's Health Series! I'm Rachel Celia, a certified health coach and founder of The Alchemy of Wellness. We’ve begun our journey into vital topics affecting women’s health, focusing on the impact of endocrine disruptors and how to make informed, healthier choices. Stay tuned as Dr. G & I continue to explore natural ways to support your well-being in this ongoing series.
For more information on how Fem Cycle can support your hormonal balance, click here.
Image credit: Headline image by Cliff Booth via Pexels
Images in body by Karolina Grabowska via Pexels
