AHPMA statement on tampons and trace levels of metal(loid)s

Consumers can be assured that tampons are a safe way of managing their period.

Tampons are safe products, made according to rigorous Government product safety regulation and safety standards.  Safety of products is of paramount importance to AHPMA members who produce the vast majority of tampons on the UK market.

A new U.S. study has identified trace levels of metal(loid)s in tampons and has speculated that there could be an exposure risk to consumers.

The study  ‘Tampons as a source of exposure to metal(loid)s’ reports trace levels of metal(loid)s.  Metal(loid)s are ubiquitous in the environment, they are found in air, water and soil, and will exist in many of the things we encounter every day such as water, meat, fish and vegetables.  The authors of the study acknowledge this, and also that further studies would be required to replicate the results and to establish whether it is even possible for trace elements to migrate from a tampon and enter the body’s systemic circulation.

The levels of metal(loid)s detected in tampons in the US study fall well within UK and EU safety levels for food and drinking water. These traces which occur naturally do not pose a risk to human health.

The components of menstrual products undergo thorough safety assessment.  Metal(loid)s are not intentionally added to products, but they can sometimes be found at very low levels as a result of them being present in the environment or as residuals of manufacturing processes.

The industry has developed scientifically sound methods for testing menstrual products which includes screening for trace substances and the industry continues to reduce residual trace elements from manufacturing processes.

Millions of tampons are used safely around the world every day and have been for many decades.  Menstrual products such as tampons perform an essential role in managing menstruation in a safe, hygienic and effective way. Consumers can be assured that tampons are a safe way of managing their period.

For more detailed information please see the joint industry statement

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Contact:  Tracy Stewart
Email: stewart.t@ahpma.co.uk
Phone: 01483 962984

The Absorbent Hygiene Manufacturers Association (AHPMA) is the UK Trade Association representing manufacturers of single use absorbent menstrual products, nappies and incontinence products

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