Toxic metals have been found in tampons, scientists say, which may put ladies at better danger of doubtless deadly well being circumstances.
Researchers from the University of California, Berkeley examined 30 tampons from 14 totally different manufacturers and found all 16 metals they have been testing for in every kind.
The metals found included arsenic, lead, mercury, nickel, copper, and iron, amongst others.
Findings of steel ranges assorted relying on whether or not the tampons have been bought in the US, UK, or EU, whether or not they have been natural or not, and whether or not they have been branded or grocery store strains.
According to the study, between 52% and 86% of ladies in the US use tampons throughout their interval.
They are notably harmful if contaminated with dangerous substances as they arrive into direct contact with the vagina, the place they’re extra simply absorbed.
Metal absorption has been found to extend the danger of dementia, most cancers, infertility, and diabetes – creating points in the liver, kidneys and mind, in addition to the cardiovascular, nervous and endocrine programs.
It can be dangerous to unborn infants.
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Jenni Shearston, lead writer of the study, mentioned: “Despite this large potential for public health concern, very little research has been done to measure chemicals in tampons.
“To our data, that is the primary paper to measure metals in tampons. Concerningly, we found concentrations of all metals we examined for, together with toxic metals like arsenic and lead.”
No ‘safe’ level of metal
Organic tampons were found to have higher levels of arsenic, while non-organic ones had more lead in them, according to the study.
Metals can make their way into tampons through various means – by the cotton absorbing contaminated water, air or soil, or through manufacturers intentionally adding it as part of a pigment.
There is no “protected” level of any of the metals tested for, the researchers warned.
Ms Shearston added: “I actually hope that producers are required to check their merchandise for metals, particularly for toxic metals.
“It would be exciting to see the public call for this, or to ask for better labelling on tampons and other menstrual products.”
