6/12/25
Risks of menstrual pads and tampons
Risks of Menstrual Pads and Tampons – What You Should Know
You’ve been using them for years. Every month. Without much thought. But what’s really in your tampons and pads? And what do they do to your body and the environment?
Chemicals in Disposable Products
Conventional tampons and pads can contain a number of problematic substances:
- Bleach: Chlorine-containing compounds are used for their white color
- Fragrances: Synthetic perfumes can irritate sensitive mucous membranes
- Pesticide Residues: Conventional cotton is heavily treated with pesticides
- Plastics and Synthetics: Pads contain more plastic than you might think
Health Risks
Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)
Tampons – especially if worn for too long – can increase the risk of TSS. This rare but serious bacterial infection is a known risk with tampon use.
Vaginal Dryness
Tampons don't just absorb blood; they also absorb the vagina's natural moisture. This can lead to dryness, irritation, and an imbalance in the vaginal flora.
Allergic Reactions
Fragrances and chemicals in disposable products can trigger contact allergies and skin irritations – especially in this sensitive area.
Environmental Impact
A person uses an average of 10,000 to 17,000 disposable products in their lifetime. This means:
- Tons of plastic waste in landfills and oceans
- Long decomposition times – pads can take up to 500 years to break down
- High resource consumption in manufacturing
The Alternative: LUNACUP Menstrual Cup
A single LUNACUP made from medical-grade silicone replaces thousands of disposable products:
- No Chemicals – 100% medical-grade silicone
- No Drying Out – collects blood instead of absorbing it
- Minimal TSS Risk – no absorbent material
- 99% Less Waste – one cup lasts for years
You don't have to be perfect. But you can make a conscious choice. For your body. For the environment. For a better period.