Are conventional tampons safe?

Conventional tampons are not required to disclose their ingredients in the U.S., and independent testing has found concerning substances including pesticide residues, dioxins from chlorine bleaching, and in some cases PFAS. The vaginal mucosa is highly permeable — more so than skin — meaning chemicals in direct contact with vaginal tissue can be absorbed into the bloodstream more readily than topical skin exposure. Dioxins, produced during chlorine bleaching of rayon, are persistent organic pollutants that accumulate in body fat and are associated with endocrine disruption and increased cancer risk at chronic exposure. While the FDA has stated that dioxin levels in conventional tampons are below detectable thresholds using current methods, independent researchers have raised concerns about the adequacy of those thresholds given lifelong, repeated use. Pesticide residues from non-organic cotton are another concern — glyphosate has been detected in conventional tampon cotton in peer-reviewed research. For most people, switching to certified organic cotton tampons with totally chlorine-free processing is a straightforward precautionary step that eliminates these exposures entirely.

Do period products contain PFAS?

Yes — independent testing has found PFAS (“forever chemicals”) in period products, including some marketed as organic or clean. PFAS are used in the leak-proof backing layers of pads and period underwear to provide water resistance, and they are not required to be disclosed on labels. Testing by Sierra Club, Consumer Reports, and academic researchers found elevated fluorine levels — an indicator of PFAS — in the absorbent and leak-proof layers of multiple mainstream pad and period underwear brands. The concern is significant: PFAS are persistent (they don’t break down in the body or environment), accumulate over time, and are associated with hormone disruption, immune system effects, thyroid disease, and increased cancer risk. Given that period underwear and pads are worn for hours at a time against highly permeable vaginal and vulvar tissue, PFAS-free verification is essential. The safest options are brands that provide independent third-party lab testing confirming PFAS-free status at or below detectable limits — not just self-reported claims. All period underwear and pads we carry meet this standard.

What is the safest menstrual cup?

The safest menstrual cups are made from medical-grade silicone — the same material used in long-term medical implants and FDA-approved medical devices. Medical-grade silicone is non-porous, chemically inert, free from plasticizers like BPA and phthalates, and does not leach detectable compounds into vaginal fluid under normal use conditions. It’s also durable, lasting years with proper care. What to avoid: cups made from “silicone” without specifying medical-grade, thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) marketed as silicone alternatives, latex (a common allergen), and any cup that doesn’t specify its exact material. FDA registration is a meaningful quality signal for menstrual cups — it requires the manufacturer to demonstrate the device is safe and effective. For sizing, most brands offer two sizes — typically based on whether you’ve given birth vaginally — but fit varies by individual anatomy, and many brands offer guidance or sizing quizzes. Sterilize between cycles by boiling in water for 5–7 minutes. Store in a breathable cotton bag, not an airtight container, to prevent moisture buildup.

What should I look for in organic tampons?

The most important things to look for in organic tampons: GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certification for the cotton — this is the most rigorous organic textile certification and covers the entire supply chain, not just the fiber. Totally chlorine-free (TCF) or elemental chlorine-free (ECF) bleaching — TCF is the stricter standard, using no chlorine compounds at all; ECF uses chlorine dioxide, which produces far fewer dioxins than conventional chlorine bleaching but is not entirely chlorine-free. No synthetic fragrance or deodorant additives — scented tampons add unnecessary chemical exposure to a highly sensitive mucous membrane. Full material disclosure for all components, including the applicator (if used), string, and wrapper. For applicators: cardboard or plant-based applicators are preferable to conventional plastic; applicator-free tampons eliminate the plastic entirely. Watch out for products that say “made with organic cotton” without third-party certification — this is a common greenwashing tactic. The fiber may be partially organic while other components are conventional, and without certification there’s no supply chain verification.

Is period underwear safe to wear?

Period underwear is safe when made without PFAS — but vetting is essential because PFAS contamination has been found in several major brands including some that marketed themselves as clean. PFAS (“forever chemicals”) are used in the moisture-wicking and leak-proof layers of period underwear for water resistance, and they are not required to be disclosed on labels. Consumer Reports, Sierra Club, and academic researchers have all found elevated PFAS levels in period underwear from mainstream brands. The key is third-party lab testing confirmation, not just brand claims. Look for brands that publish independent test results showing PFAS levels at or below detectable limits (typically reported as “not detected” at parts-per-billion thresholds). The materials used in certified PFAS-free period underwear — typically organic cotton, bamboo, or recycled fiber with non-fluorinated moisture management layers — are safe for extended contact with vulvar tissue. For washing, use fragrance-free detergent, cold water, and air dry when possible — heat degrades the absorbent layers over time and can affect leak-proof performance.

Are non-toxic feminine hygiene products worth the extra cost?

For disposable products like tampons and pads, the cost premium for organic versus conventional is real but modest — typically 20–50% more per unit, which translates to a few extra dollars per cycle. Given that most people use period products for 30–40 years, the cumulative exposure difference between conventional and organic products is significant, and the cost premium is small relative to the total cost of personal care over a lifetime. For reusable products — menstrual cups, discs, and period underwear — the economics strongly favor the cleaner option. A menstrual cup costs $25–45 and lasts years, compared to hundreds of dollars annually for disposables. Period underwear has a higher upfront cost but replaces ongoing pad purchases. The most cost-effective and lowest-exposure approach for most people is to use a combination: a menstrual cup or disc for most of the cycle, supplemented by organic cotton liners or period underwear for lighter days or as backup. This approach minimizes both cost and chemical exposure simultaneously.

Feminine Hygiene

Vitamins & Supplements

Red Light Therapy

Hand Sanitizers

Mushrooms & Adaptogens

Exercise & Yoga Gear

Saunas

Conventional tampons, pads, and period products are among the least-regulated consumer goods in the U.S. — manufacturers are not required to disclose ingredients, and independent testing has repeatedly found pesticide residues, dioxins from chlorine bleaching, synthetic fragrance, and PFAS (“forever chemicals”) in mainstream period products. Given that the vaginal mucosa is highly permeable and that most people use these products for decades, the case for choosing cleaner alternatives is strong. Every product in this collection is formulated without these concerning ingredients, with full ingredient transparency and, where applicable, organic certification.

How to Choose Safer Period Products

The period product market has expanded dramatically in the last decade — but so has greenwashing. Here’s what the research actually shows and what to look for:

What’s in Conventional Period Products

Conventional tampons and pads are primarily made from cotton and rayon — and unless certified organic, that cotton is likely grown with pesticides including glyphosate, which has been detected in conventional tampon cotton in independent testing. Chlorine bleaching of rayon produces dioxins and furans — persistent organic pollutants that accumulate in body tissue. While the FDA considers residual dioxin levels in tampons to be below harmful thresholds, “below threshold” for a chemical with no safe level of exposure and decades of cumulative use is a reasonable concern. PFAS in period products is a more recent and significant finding: independent testing by organizations including Sierra Club and Consumer Reports found PFAS in the leak-proof backing layers of several major pad and period underwear brands — including some that marketed themselves as clean or organic. PFAS are not required to be disclosed on labels.

Organic Cotton: What the Certification Means

GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) is the gold standard certification for organic textiles — it covers the entire supply chain from fiber to finished product and prohibits harmful processing chemicals. OCS (Organic Content Standard) certifies organic fiber content but doesn’t regulate processing. For period products, GOTS certification is more meaningful than OCS alone. “Made with organic cotton” without a third-party certification is a marketing claim with no verification. When evaluating organic period products, look for the GOTS logo and certification number, not just the word “organic” on the packaging.

Reusable Options: Cups, Discs, and Period Underwear

Menstrual cups and discs made from medical-grade silicone are the cleanest and most economical long-term option — no ongoing chemical exposure, no waste, and with proper care they last years. Medical-grade silicone is non-porous, non-toxic, and inert. Avoid cups made from unknown “silicone-like” materials or that don’t specify medical-grade. Period underwear is a convenient reusable option but requires careful vetting — the absorbent and leak-proof layers are where PFAS have been found. Look for brands that provide PFAS-free certification with independent lab testing data, not just self-reported claims. For washing, use fragrance-free detergent and avoid fabric softeners, which can degrade the absorbent layers over time.

How We Vet

We screen feminine hygiene products for: organic cotton certification (GOTS or OCS) for any product in contact with vaginal tissue, no chlorine bleaching (we require elemental chlorine-free or totally chlorine-free processing), no synthetic fragrance or deodorant additives, no PFAS or fluorinated compounds in any component including leak-proof layers, no dioxin-producing bleaching processes, and full ingredient and material disclosure. For menstrual cups and discs, we require medical-grade silicone, latex-free construction, and FDA registration where applicable. We do not carry products with “natural fragrance” in intimate care applications — the vaginal environment is pH-sensitive and fragrance of any kind is an unnecessary irritant and sensitizer.

Feminine Hygiene FAQs

Conventional tampons are not required to disclose their ingredients in the U.S., and independent testing has found concerning substances including pesticide residues, dioxins from chlorine bleaching, and in some cases PFAS. The vaginal mucosa is highly permeable — more so than skin — meaning chemicals in direct contact with vaginal tissue can be absorbed into the bloodstream more readily than topical skin exposure. Dioxins, produced during chlorine bleaching of rayon, are persistent organic pollutants that accumulate in body fat and are associated with endocrine disruption and increased cancer risk at chronic exposure. While the FDA has stated that dioxin levels in conventional tampons are below detectable thresholds using current methods, independent researchers have raised concerns about the adequacy of those thresholds given lifelong, repeated use. Pesticide residues from non-organic cotton are another concern — glyphosate has been detected in conventional tampon cotton in peer-reviewed research. For most people, switching to certified organic cotton tampons with totally chlorine-free processing is a straightforward precautionary step that eliminates these exposures entirely.
Yes — independent testing has found PFAS (“forever chemicals”) in period products, including some marketed as organic or clean. PFAS are used in the leak-proof backing layers of pads and period underwear to provide water resistance, and they are not required to be disclosed on labels. Testing by Sierra Club, Consumer Reports, and academic researchers found elevated fluorine levels — an indicator of PFAS — in the absorbent and leak-proof layers of multiple mainstream pad and period underwear brands. The concern is significant: PFAS are persistent (they don’t break down in the body or environment), accumulate over time, and are associated with hormone disruption, immune system effects, thyroid disease, and increased cancer risk. Given that period underwear and pads are worn for hours at a time against highly permeable vaginal and vulvar tissue, PFAS-free verification is essential. The safest options are brands that provide independent third-party lab testing confirming PFAS-free status at or below detectable limits — not just self-reported claims. All period underwear and pads we carry meet this standard.
The safest menstrual cups are made from medical-grade silicone — the same material used in long-term medical implants and FDA-approved medical devices. Medical-grade silicone is non-porous, chemically inert, free from plasticizers like BPA and phthalates, and does not leach detectable compounds into vaginal fluid under normal use conditions. It’s also durable, lasting years with proper care. What to avoid: cups made from “silicone” without specifying medical-grade, thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) marketed as silicone alternatives, latex (a common allergen), and any cup that doesn’t specify its exact material. FDA registration is a meaningful quality signal for menstrual cups — it requires the manufacturer to demonstrate the device is safe and effective. For sizing, most brands offer two sizes — typically based on whether you’ve given birth vaginally — but fit varies by individual anatomy, and many brands offer guidance or sizing quizzes. Sterilize between cycles by boiling in water for 5–7 minutes. Store in a breathable cotton bag, not an airtight container, to prevent moisture buildup.
The most important things to look for in organic tampons: GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certification for the cotton — this is the most rigorous organic textile certification and covers the entire supply chain, not just the fiber. Totally chlorine-free (TCF) or elemental chlorine-free (ECF) bleaching — TCF is the stricter standard, using no chlorine compounds at all; ECF uses chlorine dioxide, which produces far fewer dioxins than conventional chlorine bleaching but is not entirely chlorine-free. No synthetic fragrance or deodorant additives — scented tampons add unnecessary chemical exposure to a highly sensitive mucous membrane. Full material disclosure for all components, including the applicator (if used), string, and wrapper. For applicators: cardboard or plant-based applicators are preferable to conventional plastic; applicator-free tampons eliminate the plastic entirely. Watch out for products that say “made with organic cotton” without third-party certification — this is a common greenwashing tactic. The fiber may be partially organic while other components are conventional, and without certification there’s no supply chain verification.
Period underwear is safe when made without PFAS — but vetting is essential because PFAS contamination has been found in several major brands including some that marketed themselves as clean. PFAS (“forever chemicals”) are used in the moisture-wicking and leak-proof layers of period underwear for water resistance, and they are not required to be disclosed on labels. Consumer Reports, Sierra Club, and academic researchers have all found elevated PFAS levels in period underwear from mainstream brands. The key is third-party lab testing confirmation, not just brand claims. Look for brands that publish independent test results showing PFAS levels at or below detectable limits (typically reported as “not detected” at parts-per-billion thresholds). The materials used in certified PFAS-free period underwear — typically organic cotton, bamboo, or recycled fiber with non-fluorinated moisture management layers — are safe for extended contact with vulvar tissue. For washing, use fragrance-free detergent, cold water, and air dry when possible — heat degrades the absorbent layers over time and can affect leak-proof performance.
For disposable products like tampons and pads, the cost premium for organic versus conventional is real but modest — typically 20–50% more per unit, which translates to a few extra dollars per cycle. Given that most people use period products for 30–40 years, the cumulative exposure difference between conventional and organic products is significant, and the cost premium is small relative to the total cost of personal care over a lifetime. For reusable products — menstrual cups, discs, and period underwear — the economics strongly favor the cleaner option. A menstrual cup costs $25–45 and lasts years, compared to hundreds of dollars annually for disposables. Period underwear has a higher upfront cost but replaces ongoing pad purchases. The most cost-effective and lowest-exposure approach for most people is to use a combination: a menstrual cup or disc for most of the cycle, supplemented by organic cotton liners or period underwear for lighter days or as backup. This approach minimizes both cost and chemical exposure simultaneously.

An Honest Review of Bobbie Organic Gentle Infant Formula