The popularity of organic tampons has been on the rise lately as more and more people make the switch to all-natural products. WVE envisions a world free from the impacts of toxic chemicals, one where our planet and communities are thriving, one where our gender, race, sexuality, zip code, income level or job does not determine our health outcomes. Probably, at this point in time, the best answer is, We dont know. Likely the amount of glyphosate in feminine hygiene products is relatively small. Exposure to these chemicals can then interfere with important processes in your body. In addition, Marino stated that nanoparticles of titanium dioxide have been shown to cause inflammatory responses and potentially genetic damage in mice, but again pointed out that this has not occurred in humans. A viral TikTok video is spreading misinformation that an ingredient occasionally found in tampons titanium dioxide can cause cancer. Titanium dioxide is common chemical. It is important to note that studies in rats, mice and other animals are not directly applicable to humans. If you use tampons during your period (or menstruation), its important to know how to use them safely. These products are made from cotton and it is actually the cotton contained in these products that are the potential problem. Could it really be responsible for reproductive health issues? TikTokers are raising concern about titanium dioxide, a whitening agent, in organic tampons. "According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), regulated doses of titanium dioxide are not harmful, but this also varies based on use," Dr. Gohar says. This finding prompted the European Union to ban TiO2 as a food additive earlier this year, but in the U.S., the ingredient is still considered to be safe in food at the limits set by the FDA. Not surprisingly, because it is easier to spray weeds than it is to remove them by hand or machine, farmers started using more and more of this herbicide. The European Union banned titanium dioxide in food earlier this year, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agriculture Service. 1031 33rd Street Pain Inserting a Tampon? "There are no published studies on titanium dioxide causing excessive bleeding, infertility or cancer, so it is hard to say if it is dangerous to women's health or not," Dr. Gohar says. Best Organic Tampons. If you take a quick stroll through the aisles of a grocery store or drugstore, you'll find there's an organic option for just about everything these days, including produce, deodorant, and even tampons. The European Food Safety Authority in 2021 expressed concern that TiO2 particles in food additives could accumulate over time in the body and ruled that it could no longer be considered safe as a food additive. We also reached out to Proctor & Gamble, which makes the L. tampons, for comment multiple times with no response. It's used in sunscreen, all kinds of cosmetics, medications, and you'll find it in food. Information reported to MedWatch helps the FDA to ensure tampons remain safe and effective. Some tampons include titanium dioxide, which makes them appear whiter and brighter. Sign up for the Daily Skimm email newsletter. Best Eco-Friendly Applicator: Tampax Pure . Just last year the European Food Safety Authority concluded that titanium dioxide can no longer be considered safe in food, because of genotoxicity concerns [2]. This box of organic tampons from Top comes in both super and regular sizes, for light and heavy days. Even better, for every box of tampons sold in the United States, the brand donates 43 cents to nonprofit organizations to offset the "period tax" and help make period products more accessible to women in need. The rule for food items is that the coloring agent can't exceed 1% of the food's weight. It can be frustrating when you don't have a clear picture of the ingredients in your tampons, toothpaste, chewing gum, and everything in between. 4.7 out of 5 stars. "You will want to make sure they are composed of 100% organic cotton, free of chemicals, rayon, and synthetics, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, not bleached with chlorine, dioxin free, and free of additive chemicals.". One reason is that the FDA evaluates whether a tampon enhances the growth of the bacteria that causes TSS before the product can be legally marketed. We all know social media is a breeding ground for misinformation and disinformation. Titanium dioxide might be one of these. Shoppers are fans of the tampon's compact design that fits in the palm of their hand, allowing them to discreetly carry one to the bathroom. ", If you do decide to give organic tampons a try, Dr. Ross recommends checking the box for ingredients before buying. The problem is, although the cotton is resistant to the effects of the herbicide glyphosate, the chemical is still absorbed by the plant. In addition, more informative tampon labeling, as well as educational efforts by the FDA and manufacturers, may have contributed to the reduction in TSS cases. But their favorite part seems to be the fact that they are made from 90% plant-based materials. In a somewhat tasteless move, some tamponbrands even tried to take advantage of the fear gripping users on the platform and decided to take advantage of the moment to announce that their products did not have titanium dioxide. Regarding risk of cancer, there is an oft-cited study that shows that chronic high-level exposure of inhaled TiO2 could be linked to lung cancer in rats. "Again, the data is inconclusive on whether these products are really linked to excessive bleeding, cancer and infertility, so it's not right or wrong to continue using these products based on currently available information," Dr. Gohar says. But this amount varies by product. Including. So what do you do instead? We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best When inhaled repeatedly, this white powder can irritate the lungs, causing problems like bronchitis or even lung cancer, as it's been shown to be a known carcinogen in animals, according to the New Jersey Department of Health. Alkaline water:Should you be splurging to make your body less acidic? However, trouble arose for the ingredient in 2021 when the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) issued a statement that titanium dioxide "could no longer be considered safe" as a food additive. The absorbent fibers used in FDA-cleared tampons sold today are made with a bleaching process that is free from elemental chlorine, which also prevents products from having dangerous levels of dioxin (a type of pollutant found in the environment). ", Dr. Eyvazzadeh and Flynn agree that it's okay to approach the ingredient with caution. Mostly organic produce. This is the case for period care products, even those made with organic cotton. The FDA categorizes titanium dioxide as "Generally Recognized as Safe," but the scare-causing chemical has recently been banned as a food additive in the EU on the basis that experts could not. So people are like, Okay, it's doing a good thing. Understandably, some folks are pretty mad, some are very concerned. Meanwhile, other countries are cracking down on the coloring agent. As for the potential risks (or lack thereof!) Dr. Katrine Wallace, an epidemiologist and adjunct assistant professor at University of Illinois at Chicago, is another debunker of TikTok misinformation and has more than 267,000 followers on the platform. Menstrual pads get even more complicated with top layers, middle layers of absorbent foam, super absorbent polymers, various waterproof backings, more fragrance, lots of coatings to wick fluid and aid absorption, lotion ingredients like petrolatum, adhesives made with styrene, more titanium dioxide to make it look whiter, as well as colored dyes for pretty designs. Shipping details. Here are 11 organic tampons that reviewers love. "Organic tampons are available as an alternative for women who prefer to go this route," said Dr. Ross. Switch it up: Try something different for a month particularly if you're having some sort of acute reaction and see how you feel, Scranton suggested. The FDA has tested and cleared traditionally used tampons for women to use safely and with confidence.". But no matter what your period product preference, you shouldn't be worried about whether it can harm your health. But this amount varies by product. The tampons are made from 100% organic cotton that is both soft and breathable. (If you reside outside of the U.S., please simply enter 00000 for zip code), ph:(406) 543-3747 | [email protected] | 2023 All rights reserved |, Introducing WVEs New Plan for a Thriving Future. But it is becoming a controversial chemical. But while many want to try and put two and two together, the bottom line is that there isnt enough data to confirm the claims that titanium dioxide in tampons is causing the ovarian cysts and other issues people are describing. What Are the Symptoms of Having Your Period? But, again, further study is needed.. Visit our press room or contact our communications director. I wish I could explain what has happened to you and to the others who have responded to the viral TikToks with similar stories of their own. One shopper called the Top tampons a "must try" before adding, "I've used many different brands of organic tampons. Sunscreens can have concentrations of up to 25%. New study explores the benefits,harms. And is used as a coloring agent to brighten and whiten things like period products. Her job is to pore over ingredient lists and other scientific studies to find out what we know about the chemicals that are in our products and what their exposure could mean. The Beach Is My Happy Placeand Here Are 3 Science-Backed Reasons It Should Be Yours, Too. In its report, the EFSA reported that they couldn't rule out the possibility that titanium dioxide caused damage to DNA ("genotoxicity")and thus couldn't establish a safe level of daily intake. TikTok is a powerful platform thats influencing peoples lives including their physical health. Ultimately the end product produced from the cotton may also contain some amount of the chemical. ", Price at time of publication: $14.99 for 32 count. However, as of 2022, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) still . Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Titanium Dioxide, or TiO2, is a white coloring agent used in cosmetic products, toothpaste, deodorant, desserts and paint. However, there are no trials to validate this finding in humans. And they made that call after food safety officials said it could damage DNA, which could lead to cancer. And even heard from the company behind the tampons in question. Alexandra Scranton is the director of science and research at Womens Voices for the Earth, an environmental nonprofit. Are common multivitamins worth the money? We will keep fighting for the need for safer products and more thorough research! Keep in mind that sometimes titanium dioxide might also be listed as white pigment or pigment white 6 so look for those terms as well. "These tampons are fantastic," wrote one customer. Experts resounding answer: We dont have enough data. The TikTok user who posted the video makes theclaim that TiO2 has been linked to cancer and multiple gynecological issues. If you don't want to take any chances with this ingredient, try these organic products instead. The FDA has found that regulated amounts of titanium dioxide are considered safe. Shes getting checked for fucking cancer. [1] CCOHS (2019) Titanium Dioxide Classified as Possibly Carcinogenic to Humans. Inhaling titanium dioxide while you're painting a room or working on a construction site, for example, may irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. Likely in your daily life, you have much more significant exposures to this class of chemicals. the she-quel and creator of URJA Intimates skincare products for the vulva and vagina. The toxic substance produced by the bacteria can cause organ damage (including kidney, heart, and liver failure), shock, and even death. "Didn't get the weird tingling that other tampons can give you. These are the best organic tampons to shop for: Best Overall: Organyc 100% Certified Organic Tampons. But Im a stay at home mom with no income. Consider this important information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)and please share this information with other people who may use these products. Andrea Chisolm, MD, is a board-certified OB/GYN who has taught at both Tufts University School of Medicine and Harvard Medical School. Tampax. Heres what we know about exposure to titanium dioxide right now: If you inhale titanium dioxide particles it can possibly lead to lung cancer at least we know it causes lung cancer in rats [1]. It is thought that exposure to the developing fetus may be the time when these chemicals have some of the most significant impacts on future health. This is what manufacturers need to know that people are reading these things and asking these questions.. ", Price at time of publication: $6.95 for 16 count. It makes items white. Because one of the ingredients on the back of her container is titanium dioxide, which if you dont know, causes cancer, Morgan said. Myths about aluminum and deodorant, explained. There are several health concerns regarding TiO2. These are the best organic tampons to shop for: With nearly 3,000 five-star ratings, these organic tampons from Organyc are an Amazon favorite. Estimated ship . In an email statement to theSkimm, the FDA said it has not received any medical device reports related to titanium dioxide and menstrual products. And added that it requires manufacturers to evaluate their period products safety in a number of ways. To be blunt, they are worried about the possibility of something happening that has never been demonstrated to happen, Marino said. Shoppers love that these organic Tampax tampons have an applicator that is comfortable and easy to use. The highly absorbent products are made without any dioxides, polyester, pesticides, or fragrances, and they are applicator-free. Some are alleging that a common ingredient found in many tampon brands called titanium dioxide can cause excessive bleeding, infertility and even cancer. In addition to being made with 100% natural cotton, the tampons don't come with any applicators, so no excess materials need to be thrown away. Thats huge, considering the FDA doesnt require companies to list the individual ingredients in tampons and pads since theyre considered medical devices. Price at time of publication: $16 for 20 count. So the million-dollar question: is it safe to have titanium dioxide in pads and tampons? So, why would they use an ingredient that can be considered cariogenic and cause reproductive issues with tampons? Experts that spoke to Gizmodo also insisted that there is no evidence that titanium dioxide in tampons, other topical products (sunscreen), and food is unsafe to humans as it currently used. It gets used in a LOT of products and its probably been in tampons and pads for a long time (just never listed on the label before). Organyc 100% Certified Organic Cotton Tampons. ", Price at time of publication: $7.95 for 14 count. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. Hundreds of Walmart shoppers have given the tampons a near-perfect rating, with many raving about how they're absorbent and comfortable. Wallace told Gizmodo in an email that anecdotal stories like the one in Morgans TikTok go viral all the time because they are sensational and get a lot of shares and comments. There are many substances, including medications, that we safely encounter or consume on a regular basis. It's primarily used to help make white foods appear whiter (like milk and candy) or to lengthen the shelf life of foods that are sensitive to UV light. So heres a refresher: Titanium dioxide is a naturally occurring mineral. And that is what I encourage you all to do to contact the manufacturers of the products you use. That brings us to. Doctors say there's no link between cancer titanium dioxide. No issues with the applicator and love the discreet packaging. You know why? Here's what the experts suggest Keep it simple: Things like colorants, whiteners, and fragrances are not necessary to the product, Scranton said. our process. This lack of data is incredibly frustrating, given that 26 percent of the global population are of reproductive age and presumably using pads and tampons on the regular to manage their cycles. It's used in sunscreen, toothpaste, some food, and it is used to whiten the string of tampons. I believe we all have a responsibility to better and more critically appraise social media content, particularly with regard to health and medical information. The agency could not rule out potential damage to DNA,but this is much different than the agency stating there was an identified cause and effect. Felt they had the same or better absorbency. Which supplements are most likely to land you in the ER? Meanwhile, Procter & Gamble, which carries the brands This Is L, Always, and Tampax, has been responding to concerns surrounding titanium dioxide in its products. ", Price at time of publication: $10 for 16 count. "There is no published research available currently that has examined the impacts of vaginal or vulvar exposure to titanium dioxide," Dr. Eyvazzadeh. Titanium dioxide is a white powder and a common ingredient in many products. The other thing that we know [about titanium dioxide is] you don't wanna inhale it, Scranton said. ", The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved titanium dioxide for human consumptionin 1966, cementing its presence in a variety of foods, including candies and other processed foods. Tampons are designed to be inserted into the vagina with or without an applicator. If something is white, it often has titanium dioxide. If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, please see the During clinical trials the amount of titanium dioxide used have not shown any increased health risks and there have been no big outbreaks of things like ovarian cysts associated with titanium oxide tampons. Wondering the Best Organic Tampons? "The potential risks of titanium dioxide vary depending on the method of exposure," says Dr. Eyvazzadeh. These videos were chemophobia, Gunter declared, and fear mongering. oft-cited study that shows that chronic high-level exposure of inhaled TiO2 could be linked to lung cancer in rats, expressed concern that TiO2 particles in food additives could accumulate over time in the body, the FDA continues to allow for safe use of TiO2 as a food additive, Why Epsom salt should be a staple in your home medicine cabinet, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy, Inhalation: can cause irritation of nose and throat at high concentrations, Eyes: can cause mild irritation as a foreign body sensation but tearing and blinking can safely remove the particles. ", Price at time of publication: $13.98 for 36 count. Health First: A Cleaning Products Industry Roadmap for Selecting Safer Chemicals, Beyond the Label: Health Impacts of Harmful Ingredients in Cleaning Products, https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/medwatch/index.cfm?action=consumer.reporting1, More Period Policies are Addressing Ingredient Safety and Transparency, Thinx PFAS Lawsuit Also Calls Attention to Nanosilver Concerns, Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022: MOCRA Explained, First US approval of indoor air disinfectant draws NGO criticism, Johnson & Johnson Will Discontinue Talc-Based Baby Powder Globally in 2023.
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