Organic Tampons: Why should you make the switch?
We have all heard about organic fruits, vegetables, and other foods. But now everything is starting to have an organic option, which I am here for! Organic tampons have been becoming more popular and people are starting to become more aware. Millions of women use tampons every single month, however, most women are not aware of what they are actually putting into their body. We think they care about our bodies and want us to be healthy but that is WRONG. We are told very little about what is actually in tampons and the materials that are used to make them.
All tampons are regulated by the FDA as class II medical devices. The downside? Manufacturers are not required to include detailed ingredient lists on tampons boxes. In my opinion, EVERYTHING should have to say exactly what it is, because aren’t we the ones spending our hard earned money on it? That topic is for a whole other post. I want to make it clear that there is no scientific research suggesting that traditional tampons are dangerous. However, that is because there is little to no research at all about this topic. This really does not sit well with me because this is something that we are putting into our body, especially because your vagina absorbs EVERYTHING that it touches.
What is the Difference?
Regular tampons are made from cotton and Rayon. Rayon is a substance made from wood pulp. Which is used for absorbency and fragrance. If there is an applicator it is usually made with smooth plastic to make it more comfortable. However organic tampons use BPA-free plastic or have cardboard options.
Organic tampons are exactly what they say they are. PURE COTTON, free from dyes, plastics, bleach, fragrances, and pesticide-treated cotton. This means that they grow without pesticides or insecticides and free from any chemicals, dyes, or fragrances.
What do non-organic tampons contain?
Chlorine- Tampons are bleached to make them white. The chlorine then turns into dioxide.
Dioxins- This is one of the most deadly toxic compounds and it is present in all humans, usually from eating animal protein. The FDA says there are only trace amounts but even that can cause health issues. I am not sure about you but I would rather keep it away from down there, considering it absorbs EVERYTHING it touches.
Glyphosate- One study showed that 85% of tampons tested contained glyphosate. This is a popular herbicide commonly found in Monsanto’s Roundup weed killer. The result? Cancer.
Phthalates, dioxins, and toxins are found in our food supply, environment, and household products just like regular tampons. But, this is also one of the most delicate organs in the body and absorbs everything. On average, a woman uses 11,000 tampons in her lifetime. I think making the switch is important because you are reducing your exposure to things like this as much as possible.
Go Green
Buying pesticide-free cotton in organic tampons can also help our environment. Pesticides and herbicides are not used so chemicals do not go in waterways, soil life is protected, birds, bees, and other pollinators are protected. Most organic tampons are plastic free and do not contribute to pollution. An average pack of regular pads contains the same amount of plastic as 4 carrier bags. Cotton is a natural fiber which makes it compostable, unlike synthetics. So, you can make compost out of organic tampons and pads if you have a garden. But it is important to look at the ingredients first to make sure everything says it is organic.
My Favorite Organic Tampons: LOLA Tampons
I have been using LOLA tampons for almost a year now and I will never use regular tampons again! That is a little dramatic but I only use them if I do not have any other choice. I feel like they absorb much better than other tampons. Inserting it can be a little difficult in the beginning because you have to make sure it clicks before, but once you figure it out your good. They are made with 100% certified organic cotton. LOLA tampons do not contain synthetic fibers, chemical additives, dyes, fragrances, chlorine bleach, GMOs, pesticides, toxins, or latex. They have plastic applicators that are made with BPA-free plastic and cardboard applicators. Which is made from virgin fiber that is flushable. LOLA also offers pads and you can mix up your box with both. Make the switch and make a change for your body and the environment!
