A report named “Menstrual Waste 2022” was published by a Delhi-based NGO, Toxics Link, showing that sanitary pads contain harmful chemicals that might cause cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
The samples taken by the NGO were of popular sanitary pad brands. They found phthalates and volatile organic compounds in ten of the samples- six of which were inorganic and four organic.
According to the research, all the samples, both organic and inorganic, had the presence of phthalates. What was also noteworthy is that although all of these samples found the presence of cancer-causing chemicals, the highest amounts were found in the brands which are selling their pads with the title of “organic.”
“Most of these chemicals are added to make the pad more elastic. But, they are dangerous because they can cause problems like PCOS, endometriosis, hypothyroidism, etc. They can change the hormonal functioning of the body. Phthalates leak out; they are not bound to the product they are added to. The vaginal tissues have a higher permeability. These chemicals, therefore, are absorbed into the body at a higher rate,” Dr Aakansha Mehrotra from Toxics Link told Indian Express.
What are phthalates?
Phthalates are a group of chemicals called “plasticizers”, used to make plastic more durable. They are often used to make the products flexible and decrease the friction, ideally to make sanitary napkins more comfortable to use.
The study claimed that phthalates were used to add elasticity to the pad and stick the extra layers of the napkins together. Two of the most sold sanitary brand in India consisted of six types of phthalates.
These plasticizers are known to cause reproductive diseases, birth defects and even some types of cancer.
What are Volatile Organic Compound?
Volatile Organic Compounds are organic chemicals that are often added to products for odour. Most of the VOCs are not toxic but the long-term use of these can cause chronic health issues in humans.
VOCs are added to sanitary napkins to add odour. It is often used as an advertisement tag by the sanitary brands to sell their napkins due to their high potential of hiding period odour. However, VOCs are known to cause allergic reactions. They also cause reproductive issues, brain impairment, asthma and certain types of cancers.
Sanitary pads were examined for a presence of 25 Volatile Organic Compounds, where VOCs like acetone, chloroform, benzene, toulene, etc. were found in both organic and inorganic napkins.
What are some safer alternatives?
With all the harmful chemicals found in sanitary napkins along with the negative impact, it has on the environment, what are some safer alternatives that menstruators can go for?
Menstrual Cups
One of the best alternatives to sanitary pads is menstrual cups. These cups are reusable- they can be easily rinsed, washed, and used again- making them both economical and environmental-friendly. Made out of silicon or rubber, some experts believe that these cups can be used for more than 10 years. However, considering their affordable prices, it is easily accessible for everyone to buy them.
Tampons
Tampons are another safer choice to go for. They are used by people who are looking for swimming, showering and running without making the task uncomfortable for them. They are available in various sizes and can be used for more than 12 hours, depending on the type and size of them.
However, tampons are connected with toxic shock syndrome. So, it is better to change them at short intervals.
Period Panties
One of the most comfortable alternatives, period panties contains many layers to hold the leakage. They are environment friendly, reusable and affordable. These are worn as normal undergarments and can be used comfortably during the lighter flow.
