Healthy Obsession: Toxin-Free Tampons Solve This Big Period Problem

Ask anyone who’s met her monthly visitor, and she’ll tell you straight up: As necessary as tampons are, they can be seriously scary. And these days, the toxic shock syndrome horror stories are spreading like wildfire, making women question whether they should switch to pads after all.

But if you—like many women—prefer the comfort and convenience of tampons to their bulkier alternatives, go for 100-percent certified organic tampons that are free of toxins and chlorine. Period.

Conventional, non-organic tampons can contain synthetic materials and chemicals like polypropylene, polyethylene, surfactants, perfumes, and polyacrylate super absorbents, as well as chlorine-bleached cotton. These potential irritants are the last thing you want near sensitive lady parts. And worse, they can actually leach through the skin into the blood. The results can be anything from allergic reactions to more serious issues, like bacterial vaginosis.

While the FDA maintains that there isn’t a conclusive link between conventional feminine hygiene products and their purported side effects, common sense tells us those toxins are still worth avoiding. If we wouldn’t fill our tummies, clean our homes, or wash up with products made from potentially harmful chemicals, why would we put them inside our bodies every month?

As studies continue to explore the potential risks of non-organic feminine products, we’ll play it safe with Natracare’s Cotton Tampons. They offer the same level of comfort and protection as with regular tampons—and give you peace of mind knowing there’s no risk of chemicals leaching into your body. Even the applicators are made from totally chlorine-free, biodegradable cardboard. Bonus: they’re cruelty-free and biodegradable, too.

And if you’re worried about a higher price tag, don’t be. Here on Thrive Market, you can pick up a 16-count box for less than five bucks.

Photo credit: Alicia Cho