FDA starts investigating the safety of tampons after worrying study

Earlier this year, a study raised concerns about the potential health risks women may face due to the presence of metals in tampons. 

In response, the FDA has launched a new investigation to better understand how these metals might impact women’s health.

This initiative follows pressure from a group of senators, led by Patty Murray (D-Wash.), who urged the FDA to take action. In a letter sent in July, Murray stressed the need for further testing to assess the possible health effects of metal exposure from tampon use.

The FDA is now planning a thorough review of existing research on the subject. To accomplish this, the agency has hired an independent contractor to answer three questions:

1. What do previous studies reveal about the prevalence, levels, and types of biomarkers (disease indicators) found in tampon users, and how do these compare to normal values?
2. What health issues linked to tampon use (excluding toxic shock syndrome) are reported in the literature, and how do these rates differ from non-tampon users?
3. What findings exist regarding laboratory tests conducted on tampons?

Along with this review, the FDA will also conduct its own, more detailed study to evaluate the risks of metal exposure from tampons.

In the initial study, 30 different tampon types from over a dozen brands were tested for 16 different metals. The results showed that all of the tampons contained detectable levels of metals, with each type having some concentration.

The findings from the new research will help the FDA provide clearer guidance on any potential health risks related to tampon use, ensuring women have the information they need to make informed decisions.

The members of the Democratic Women’s Caucus wrote: “Women use about 7,400 tampons over the course of their reproductive years, so the presence of potentially harmful metals and chemicals in these products is incredibly concerning.” 

“Exposure to heavy metals can cause severe negative health effects, including damage to the cardiovascular system and liver, and an increased risk of cancer, among many other complications. The FDA must review and improve the current safety standards for tampons. We urge the FDA to take swift action to ensure that women are safe from harmful and toxic substances in tampons.” FDA starts investigating the safety of tampons after worrying study