What’s in your pads and tampons?
The good, the bad and the ugly behind your menstrual products
“Don’t use Always.” I was taken aback when the instructor told us not to use the Always brand. I’ve been using Always since I was 12 years old. I honestly never really thought about the products I was using until I started specializing in pelvic health and women’s health.
As a pelvic health physiotherapist, I help women navigate their health through every stage of life. Recently period product brands have been exposed for having Forever Chemicals aka. PFAS in their products and other substances we want to avoid. Your choice of products can significantly impact not only your pelvic health but also your overall well-being. We want to take extra caution in which products we are using in our vulvar and vaginal area as these areas are senstive and absorb products easily.
Today, I want to dive into why using clean and organic feminine hygiene products is so crucial.
Risk of Mainstream Period Products
Many conventional menstrual products like tampons and pads contain synthetic fibers, fragrances, and chemicals such as dioxins, pesticides, and chlorine bleach. Some products may even contain harmful substances like phthalates and “forever chemicals” (PFAS), which have been linked to a range of health issues, including hormonal disruptions, reproductive health problems, and even cancer.
As women, we are especially vulnerable during menstruation because the skin in the vaginal and vulvar area is more permeable and sensitive. Absorbing harmful chemicals through these products can affect not only your pelvic health but also your hormonal balance, contributing to infertility, discomfort, allergies, and potentially more severe conditions.
For example, some products may increase pain and discomfort during menstruation and simply changing to a cleaner product may help reduce the pain. It’s crazy, I know. How can wearing a material contribute to pain? Of course everyone is different, but I have seen this happen with some patients.
Why Choose Cleaner Period Products?
Reduce your Exposure to Harmful Chemicals:
Clean, organic menstrual products are free from pesticides, synthetic materials, and harsh chemicals. They protect your pelvic floor and vaginal health by reducing the risk of irritation and inflammation caused by exposure to synthetic fibers, chlorine, and fragrance additives.
Lower Risk of Allergies and Infections:
Non-organic products are often bleached and treated with chemicals that can disrupt your natural pH balance, leading to infections like bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections. Organic products, which are free from these harsh chemicals, help maintain a healthy vaginal environment.
Pelvic Floor and Vulvar Integrity:
A healthy pelvic floor requires balanced support from your muscles and tissues, but chronic exposure to irritants in conventional products can compromise skin health and pelvic floor function. Using organic products promotes optimal tissue health, reducing irritation and friction.
Sustainability and your Body:
Clean products are often eco-friendly and biodegradable, which not only benefits the environment but also reduces your exposure to unnecessary toxins. Many of these products are free from PFAS, a group of chemicals that don’t break down and can accumulate in your body and the environment.
How to choose the right period products?
I know, I know…wth. There are so many options out there and it can be very overwhelming. Here is a list of things you want to look for when choosing the right product for you:
Organic cotton pads.
This allows for breathability of the vulvar area reducing skin irritation, itching and allergies.
No dyes
No fragrances
No chlorines
My Top Recommendations for Safe, Clean Feminine Hygiene Products
Here are some trusted brands offering clean and organic period products that prioritize both your health and the environment. These companies are known for avoiding harmful chemicals and focusing on sustainable, body-safe alternatives:
100% organic cotton pads, tampons, and menstrual cups. Free from chlorine, fragrances, and harmful synthetics.
Does not state PFAS-free.
Amazon link here*
Personalized period care products using certified organic cotton. Known for transparency and chemical-free offerings.
PFAS-free, chlorine-free and free of dyes and synthetic fragrances.
Amazon link here*
Organic pads, tampons, and liners, designed with hypoallergenic, biodegradable materials.
PFAS-free and chlorine-free.
Amazon link here*
A pioneer in eco-friendly, organic period products, Natracare’s tampons and pads are compostable and free from synthetic additives.
PFAS-free, chlorine-free, no dyes, fragrance-free
Amazon link here*
Herbal-infused pads and tampons with plant-based ingredients to soothe irritation while remaining chemical-free.
Amazon link here*
100% organic cotton products, ideal for sensitive skin, free from fragrances, dyes and bleaching agents. Also PFAS-free.
Amazon link here*
Medical-grade silicone menstrual cups that are reusable, eco-friendly, and free from harmful chemicals like latex, BPA, and phthalates.
No PFAS-free claim
Amazon link here*
Organic cotton period underwear and menstrual cups.
PFAS-free, dye-free, fragrance-free and chemical-free.
Amazon link here*
This is only a small list of products. There are more clean products out there.
Your Health, Your Choice
Choosing organic and clean menstrual products isn’t just about avoiding chemicals; it’s about taking proactive steps to protect your pelvic and overall health. As a pelvic health physiotherapist, I see firsthand how the small, everyday choices women make—like the products they use—can have a big impact on their long-term health.
Your menstrual cycle is a natural part of your life, and it deserves care that respects both your body and your environment. The average female will experience 456 periods across their lifetime and use approximately 10,000 menstrual products.(1) That’s crazy! By opting for safe, clean, and organic hygiene products, you are investing in your well-being and ensuring that your body is supported in the healthiest way possible.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about pelvic health or if you want guidance on selecting the best feminine hygiene products for your unique needs.
Take care of your body, take care of your health.
Leila Awada, PT
- Registered Pelvic Health Physiotherapist
Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Please seek appropriate medical advice for your individual needs/requirements. The brands listed in this blog post are not affiliated with Leila Awada, itsaphysiolife or LA Physio & Wellness in anyway. The mentioned brands may change their products overtime so it is up to the reader to ensure the integrity of the products.
*Amazon links are affiliate links.
Resource:
Regional Health-Americas, The Lancet. “Menstrual health: a neglected public health problem.” Lancet regional health. Americas vol. 15 100399. 11 Nov. 2022, doi:10.1016/j.lana.2022.100399