Moms Across America is alarmed but not surprised that heavy metals have been found in tampons. We are deeply concerned for the health and safety of our daughters, sisters, friends, and ourselves.

Researchers estimate that more than 100 million women in over 120 countries use tampons during their menstrual cycle. The average woman will spend about five years of their total reproductive lifespan using an estimated 11,000 tampons, sanitary pads, panty liners and other menstrual products, experts say. Tampons are generally considered safe and healthy menstrual products. Women who use tampons may increase their risk for toxic shock syndrome if they use them incorrectly or leave them in longer than recommended.

Most tampons contain fabrics made from the natural fiber cotton and/or rayon — a man-made fabric made from cellulose fibers of certain natural plants.

A new study conducted by researchers at the UC Berkeley School of Public Health has identified the presence of 16 different heavy metals in tampons from 14 different brands purchased in the U.S. and the U.K.

How are heavy metals getting into tampons?

The contamination of soil by the agricultural industry by toxic heavy metals— such as mercury, lead, and cadmium — is common. These heavy metals can then be absorbed into the plants growing within its soil. These plants, like cotton, are then made into sanitary products that expose the consumers to heavy metals.

The vagina is highly sensitive and absorbent. Many studies show that vaginal suppositories absorb medicine in 15 to 30 minutes, so although the study does not determine if the heavy metals are absorbed into the body, there is no reason to expect them not to.

The study was recently published in the journal Environment International.

Past research has found tampons and other menstrual products may contain chemicals such as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS; plasticizers, also known as phthalates; and volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, emitted as gas or fragrances from many consumer products.

Moms Across America reminds our network that glyphosate has also been found in tampons and sanitary pads. Glyphosate increases the harmful impact of environmental toxins, so the presence of heavy metals in tampons is doubly concerning.

Our agrochemical farming is one of the largest problems facing our society. Pesticides and heavy metals are poisoning our society in nearly every aspect of our daily lives.

Many suggest that using silicon cups is a good alternative. However, it's important to note that while silicone menstrual cups are generally considered safe for use, the presence of D4 and D5 siloxanes is a concern. MAA suggests utilizing organic sanitary pads, which are not inserted into the body, to reduce exposure.

Women expect the products they use, internally especially, to be safe.

However, the study points out:

In general, regulations in the US, EU, and UK protecting consumers from potential contaminants in tampons are nearly nonexistent, and none of these governments require manufacturers to test their products for harmful chemicals, including metals.

Moms Across America urges everyone to contact their elected officials to require the EPA to reassess and lower the maximum residue levels ( MRLS) of pesticides and heavy metals on crops. Farmers DO NOT NEED GMOs, toxic chemicals, or petroleum (heavy metal-containing) fertilizers. There are many safe alternatives—regenerative organic farming practiced by some cultures for thousands of years proves this to be true.

The farmer's desire for convenience should not be contaminating our coochies!

We need the use of toxins in farming to STOP!

Our reproductive organs and the future of the human race are at stake!