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šŸ§Ŗ What’s in Your Pads and Tampons? Unpacking the Chemicals in Menstrual and Intimate Care Products

Introduction

Menstrual and intimate care products are essential to daily life for millions of people—but how often do we question what they’re made of? Recent scientific investigations into the chemical composition of pads, tampons, liners, and wipes have revealed potential exposure to harmful substances hidden in these products.

A study focusing on extractables and leachables (E&L)—chemicals that can be released from materials under stress—aims to provide a clearer picture of what’s really in these products, and how they might affect health and safety.

                                                                                


What Are Extractables & Leachables?

  • Extractables are compounds that can be drawn out from a product under aggressive conditions (like heat or solvents).

  • Leachables are compounds that actually migrate into the body or environment during regular use.

These substances may include: šŸ”¹ Phthalates
šŸ”¹ Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
šŸ”¹ Fragrance allergens
šŸ”¹ Pesticide residues
šŸ”¹ Heavy metals

Why This Matters

Menstrual and intimate products are used in highly absorbent and permeable areas of the body. If harmful chemicals leach from these products, they may disrupt hormones, cause irritation, or even pose long-term health risks. Yet, regulation is minimal, and ingredient disclosure is often lacking.

What the Study Found

šŸ”¬ Using advanced analytical techniques, researchers found that:
✅ Many products contained trace levels of concerning chemicals.
✅ Fragrance-containing items had higher levels of VOCs and allergens.
✅ Some materials released endocrine-disrupting compounds under heat and pressure.
✅ Organic or unfragranced products generally showed fewer extractables.

What Can You Do?

šŸ’” Choose unscented, organic, or certified-safe products.
šŸ’” Support transparency in labeling and demand full disclosure from brands.
šŸ’” Stay informed with science-backed resources.

Final Thoughts

Our bodies deserve safe products—especially for something as routine and personal as menstrual care. Ongoing scientific research, like this E&L study, is vital to pushing for safer formulations, stricter regulations, and a future where health doesn’t come with hidden chemicals.

31st Edition of International Research Conference on Science Health and Engineering | 25-26 April 2025 | Berlin, Germany

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