One of the most intimate products used by women worldwide—tampons—has come under fire following new research revealing the presence of toxic pesticides, including glyphosate, in UK-sold menstrual products.
A comprehensive study conducted by environmental and health advocacy groups has uncovered disturbing concentrations of glyphosate, a herbicide linked to cancer, in tampons available on the British market. One sample tested positive for 0.004 mg/kg of glyphosate—forty times higher than the legal threshold for drinking water in the UK and the European Union, which is 0.0001 mg/kg.
Health risks escalate due to direct absorption
Glyphosate, the active ingredient in many weed killers, has long been under scrutiny for its potential carcinogenic effects. The World Health Organization has labeled it as “probably carcinogenic to humans.” Its detection in tampons is especially concerning given the potential for direct absorption into the bloodstream through the vaginal mucosa, which bypasses the body’s natural detoxification mechanisms.
Also detected in the tampon samples was aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA), a degradation product of glyphosate, indicating the likely use of chemical-intensive practices in the cultivation of cotton used to manufacture menstrual products.
According to researchers, the porous nature of vaginal tissue allows for faster and more potent chemical absorption than other routes. The presence of such contaminants in period products, which women use regularly and in direct contact with sensitive tissue, raises serious public health concerns.
Lack of regulation fuels outrage
Despite the growing body of evidence linking chemicals in personal care items to long-term health effects, UK regulations on menstrual product safety remain minimal. Currently, there are no specific laws that mandate chemical safety testing for tampons and other menstrual hygiene products.
This regulatory gap has prompted consumer safety advocates to call for urgent reforms. They demand mandatory chemical testing protocols and transparency in ingredient disclosures for all menstrual products sold on the market.
“There is no excuse for this lack of oversight,” said one campaigner. “Consumers deserve to know what they’re putting into their bodies, especially for products that come into such intimate contact with their health.”
Environmental toll adds to controversy
Beyond human health concerns, glyphosate’s impact on the environment is equally worrying. Its widespread use in agriculture has been associated with biodiversity loss, harm to pollinators such as bees, and contamination of water bodies.
The revelation that traces of this potent chemical are making their way from farm fields into feminine hygiene products underscores the broader implications of unchecked pesticide use. Campaigners are also advocating for restrictions on glyphosate’s use in urban areas and agricultural reform to prioritize organic and less chemically-intensive practices.
Echoes of past concerns
This is not the first time menstrual products have come under scrutiny. Previous independent investigations have revealed the presence of heavy metals such as arsenic and lead, as well as suspected endocrine-disrupting chemicals in tampons and sanitary pads.
Although brands often advertise their products as “cotton soft” or “clinically tested,” these terms are not regulated, leaving consumers vulnerable to misleading claims.
Advocates push for safer alternatives
In light of these findings, there has been a renewed push to educate the public about safer menstrual products. Advocates recommend switching to certified organic tampons and pads that explicitly avoid the use of synthetic pesticides and toxic processing chemicals.
Reusable options such as menstrual cups and cloth pads are also gaining popularity among consumers seeking chemical-free and eco-friendly alternatives. However, affordability and accessibility remain concerns, especially for low-income and marginalized communities.
What comes next?
The study’s findings have reignited calls for governmental action and international standards for menstrual product safety. Health organizations and NGOs are urging lawmakers to implement robust testing requirements and labeling standards to protect consumers.
Until such measures are in place, consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant and demand transparency from manufacturers. The voices of millions of menstruating individuals deserve to be heard in the ongoing fight for product safety and public health.
