One of the tricky things about titanium dioxide is that it can be consumed in a myriad of ways, making risk calculation difficult. Well+Good decodes and demystifies what it means to live a well life, inside and out. Love, love, love it. You may want to talk with your health care provider about whether tampons are right for you. In addition to being gynecologist-tested, the tampons are also biodegradable and free from fragrances, dyes, synthetics, and chemicals. We all deserve safe products and all you need to do is ask. In addition, Gunter stated that this wouldnt apply anyway because no one is washing a tampon and reusing it, anyway. Aka a common coloring agent. Wash your hands before and after using a tampon. After August 7, the EU is banning it. Reusable tampons may carry additional risks of infections such as yeast, fungal, and bacterial infections. Ask them how they are ensuring the safety of their tampons and pads. There are however many brands who do not use this in their period products. This lack of data is incredibly frustrating, given that 26 percent of the global population are of reproductive age and presumably using pads and tampons on the regular to manage their cycles. And linked it to cancer and damage to the immune system when certain amounts were ingested over a period of time. Shipping details. This will help reduce the spread of bacteria. Just bear in mind: If you have any specific health concerns to weigh, it's critical to reach out to your gynecologist or primary care physician to make the right choice for you. Though some research identified a link between the . Read our, What Exposure Could Mean for Your Reproductive Health. We spoke to ob-gyn James A. Gohar, MD, co-founder and CEO of Viva Eve, to set the record straight on this substance in question, including whether it poses any risk to your reproductive health (or otherwise) and which tampon products are safest. Gunter also added that when products like titanium dioxide are put on fabric, the point is to have them stay on the fabric. And then look up and vet the products that we do have available.. Meanwhile, Procter & Gamble, which carries the brands This Is L, Always, and Tampax, has been responding to concerns surrounding titanium dioxide in its products. $17.50 ($0.24/Count) Sold by Utopia Distributors and ships from Amazon Fulfillment. However, there are no trials to validate this finding in humans. However there is not enough proof showing titanium dioxide coloring in tampons to be harmful. So the million-dollar question: is it safe to have titanium dioxide in pads and tampons? For more details, see our Privacy Policy. In a post on her Vajenda Substack on Wednesday, Gunter said that as a result of the videos on TikTok, she had received panicked messages from women worried that their tampons were the cause of their pre-cancer of the cervix. And since the chemical is in the cotton plant it will also be in the cotton produced from the plant. A viral TikTok video is spreading misinformation that an ingredient occasionally found in tampons titanium dioxide can cause cancer. Ive written multiple times in this columnabout how an observed association between two events or variables does not necessarily mean that one caused the other. Unbelievable. "They're organic, and I love how compact they are! It can be frustrating when you don't have a clear picture of the ingredients in your tampons, toothpaste, chewing gum, and everything in between. oft-cited study that shows that chronic high-level exposure of inhaled TiO2 could be linked to lung cancer in rats, expressed concern that TiO2 particles in food additives could accumulate over time in the body, the FDA continues to allow for safe use of TiO2 as a food additive, Why Epsom salt should be a staple in your home medicine cabinet, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy, Inhalation: can cause irritation of nose and throat at high concentrations, Eyes: can cause mild irritation as a foreign body sensation but tearing and blinking can safely remove the particles. I started switching to organic food, so why not beauty/hygiene products as well? fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs); Although the vagina is a mucous membrane through which a chemical could be absorbed we dont know for sure if this actually happens and if it does how much glyphosate is actually absorbed. Wallace told Gizmodo in an email that anecdotal stories like the one in Morgans TikTok go viral all the time because they are sensational and get a lot of shares and comments. Still, more studies in humans need to be performed to verify this finding. Dr. Cohen agrees, saying its important to hold legislators to a higher standard in making sure that they follow through with legislation that really does make sense, like the New York policy.. And that is what I encourage you all to do to contact the manufacturers of the products you use. if (d.getElementById(id)) return; "If you feel uncomfortable with the potential risks associated with titanium dioxide, look for products that dont include titanium dioxide on the ingredients list," says Flynn. Hundreds of Amazon shoppers love these organic cotton tampons from Seventh Generation because of their comfortable, dual-layer design that prevents leaks. Thanks again for sharing your story its voices like yours that can make all the difference. Before you start gathering all your tampons and scouring their ingredient lists, you should know that experts want you to chill and stop worrying: Your tampons are safe. Heres What Your Bodys Trying to Tell You, National Library of Medicine: Titanium dioxide, U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Questions and Answers: FDA posts deemed final order and proposed order for over-the-counter sunscreen, European Food Safety Authority: Titanium dioxide: E171 no longer considered safe when used as a food additive, U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Code of Federal Regulations Title 21, New Jersey Department of Health: Hazardous Substance Fact Sheet: Titanium Dioxide, International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health: Impact of Food Additive Titanium Dioxide on Gut Microbiota Composition, Microbiota-Associated Functions, and Gut Barrier: A Systematic Review of In Vivo Animal Studies. The FDA categorizes titanium dioxide as "Generally Recognized as Safe," but the scare-causing chemical has recently been banned as a food additive in the EU on the basis that experts could not. "They come in two different sizesregular and superwhich are very convenient depending on the day. Titanium dioxide is in food, cosmetics, dye, tampons. https://www.ccohs.ca/headlines/text186.html, [2] EFSA (2021) Titanium dioxide: E171 no longer considered safe when used as a food additive. One user shared her anger after learning that the tampons shes been using contain titanium dioxide. Bottom line: "When it comes to period products, the priority should be using products that you feel comfortable with and are accessible to you," he says. "If this worries you, then don't use products that have this," Jennifer Lincoln, MD, shared in a video. While there's concern over This Is L Incs tampons, the use of the ingredient in period products isnt new. And remember, this is inhaled TiO2 atveryhigh levels much higher than the small amount of TiO2 in the strings of tampons. "These tampons are fantastic," wrote one customer. a lot of people online are upset with tampon brands (tampax and L. specifically) because they include titanium dioxide in the tampons, which apparently can cause reproductive harm. They are in your food, your clothes, your makeup, and skincare products just to name a few of your daily exposures. A viral TikTok with millions views about how tampons that contain titanium dioxide can cause cancer and other health problems has spurred calls on the platform to throw away all products that match that description. This means that farmers could use this herbicide to kill the weeds in their fields without worrying about it harming the cotton crops. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); (function(d, s, id) { He studied Global Health at Georgetown University and has a Medical Degree from Ben-Gurion University. Certainly, we don't have the data to support that alarmist concern. polyester, glycerin, paraffin, titanium dioxide. The absorbent fibers used in FDA-cleared tampons sold today are made with a bleaching process that is free from elemental chlorine, which also prevents products from having dangerous levels of dioxin (a type of pollutant found in the environment). Made with a 100% cotton core, the company's feminine care products are produced without any dyes, fragrances, or chlorine bleaching. The only tampons cleared or approved by the FDA are designed for single-use. Despite a small percentage ofTiO2 present in the product, low toxicity risk and an unsupported cause-and-effect exampleare both factors that led me to debunk this claim. We know from rat studies, rats that inhale it are getting lung cancer.. And many of these chemicals have been associated with contributing to cancer and other medical problems. by theorganicbunny on August 3, 2022. In this world, every point in the cycle of production and consumption from extraction, to processing, to use, to disposal contributes not just to a less toxic world, but to a thriving world. These options are often referred to as green alternatives and include: By Andrea Chisholm, MD Subscribe to receive Consumer Updates email notifications. Well, unfortunately, we just dont know if that causes health effects.There is no published research available that has ever examined the impacts of vaginal or vulvar exposure to titanium dioxide. Information reported to MedWatch helps the FDA to ensure tampons remain safe and effective. productslearn more about Shes getting checked for fucking cancer. Have a beautiful child. Organic farming typically uses more sustainable practices, plus by not treating cotton with pesticides, fewer harmful chemicals have been released into the environment. I wanted to do more research before just jumping and following this narrative blindly. I changed them every 2-3 hours, and even then I'd feel dry and chaffed or just felt them there. Walmart customers love these super plus organic cotton tampons from Lola so much, they have given them an impressive 4.3-star rating. Price at time of publication: $6.98 for 20 count. Some. The rule for food items is that the coloring agent can't exceed 1% of the food's weight. It's mainly used for color. "Titanium dioxide is a naturally occurring substance that is often used in food and other topical products to create a whiter and brighter look," Dr. Gohar says. WVE envisions a world free from the impacts of toxic chemicals, one where our planet and communities are thriving, one where our gender, race, sexuality, zip code, income level or job does not determine our health outcomes. Organyc 100% Certified Organic Cotton Tampons. Get it daily. The danger is that people will listen to the sensationalized viral video, instead of having a real conversation about risks with their doctor or health care provider.. The FDA discourages the use of reusable tampons. National Library of Medicines list at the Posner Center Pain Inserting a Tampon? As a result, it's not too difficult to shop for TiO2-free tampons if you're concernedand have the financial means to do so. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. So, titanium dioxide on the tampon string is not going to be dissolved and absorbed by menstrual blood; and certainly, will not be absorbed into the body. These videos were chemophobia, Gunter declared, and fear mongering. Doctors say there's no link between cancer titanium dioxide. How Bad Is It Really to Wear a Tampon for Longer Than 8 Hours? Andrea Chisolm, MD, is a board-certified OB/GYN who has taught at both Tufts University School of Medicine and Harvard Medical School. What we have now is some really interesting studies on titanium dioxide, showing that there's a disruption of the gut microbiome when you ingest it, Dr. Cohen said. Understandably, some folks are pretty mad, some are very concerned. He reiterated that no such evidence exists. Theres been a lot of alarmist concern, she said. Here's what the experts suggest Keep it simple: Things like colorants, whiteners, and fragrances are not necessary to the product, Scranton said. The highly absorbent products are made without any dioxides, polyester, pesticides, or fragrances, and they are applicator-free. Hundreds of Walmart shoppers have given the tampons a near-perfect rating, with many raving about how they're absorbent and comfortable. Chemistry class was a long time ago. As of the time of publication of this article, Morgans TikTok as well as others on the subject with the hashtag #titaniumdioxide were still on the platform racking up views. AT AMAZON. Thats huge, considering the FDA doesnt require companies to list the individual ingredients in tampons and pads since theyre considered medical devices. I am not into social media. The thread is so soft and they absorb perfectly. ", Price at time of publication: $13.99 for 36 count. For about the last twenty years the majority of cotton farmers have been using seeds that were modified to have resistance to a major herbicide known as glyphosate. In an email statement to theSkimm, the FDA said it has not received any medical device reports related to titanium dioxide and menstrual products. And added that it requires manufacturers to evaluate their period products safety in a number of ways. A world where workers are treated with dignity from our paychecks to our working conditions. And it functions the same in tampons: Titanium dioxide serves as a coloring agent to make your period products appear whiter, Dr. Gohar says. Could you explain as to why this happened to me? ", Price at time of publication: $14.99 for 32 count. Free standard shipping with $35 orders. The Beach Is My Happy Placeand Here Are 3 Science-Backed Reasons It Should Be Yours, Too. Delivered to your inbox every morning and prepares you for your day in minutes. Chemicals are everywhere. Your official excuse to add "OOD" (ahem, out of doors) to your cal. (no offense) Other human studies, however, have not found any clear link between lung cancer and titanium dioxide. Unfortunately, this question doesnt have a simple answer. Health First: A Cleaning Products Industry Roadmap for Selecting Safer Chemicals, Beyond the Label: Health Impacts of Harmful Ingredients in Cleaning Products, https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/medwatch/index.cfm?action=consumer.reporting1, More Period Policies are Addressing Ingredient Safety and Transparency, Thinx PFAS Lawsuit Also Calls Attention to Nanosilver Concerns, Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022: MOCRA Explained, First US approval of indoor air disinfectant draws NGO criticism, Johnson & Johnson Will Discontinue Talc-Based Baby Powder Globally in 2023. But while many want to try and put two and two together, the bottom line is that there isnt enough data to confirm the claims that titanium dioxide in tampons is causing the ovarian cysts and other issues people are describing. And performed in ways that account for different titanium dioxide levels and time of exposure. Protective wrap stands up to the roughest of travel and yet is easily unwrapped so no time is wasted. Considering each pack comes with 32 tampons, their price isn't even that bad for an all-organic product! So heres a refresher: Titanium dioxide is a naturally occurring mineral. But the video is raising important questions: What is titanium dioxide? If you have sensitive skin, these hypoallergenic, certified organic cotton tampons from Cora might be just what you're looking for. Nonetheless, doctors on TikTok and across social media have come out to say that tampon users should not panic, as there is no scientific evidence that titanium dioxide in tampons cause any harm. Some are alleging that a common ingredient found in many tampon brands called titanium dioxide can cause excessive bleeding, infertility and even cancer. Dr. Jennifer Gunter, an OB/GYN and frequent debunker of outrageous and fake advice online, is one of the doctors that came out this week to try to reassure individuals that their tampons were not toxic death sticks.. Only tampons that have been cleared by the FDA can be legally marketed in the U.S. As to whether its nanoparticals in the string or not, once blood an other fluids touches the chemical its most likely all fusing together and that is going inside our very sensitive systems. The TikTok user who posted the video makes theclaim that TiO2 has been linked to cancer and multiple gynecological issues. "Organic tampons are available as an alternative for women who prefer to go this route," said Dr. Ross. TikTok is a powerful platform thats influencing peoples lives including their physical health. There's just a lot of unknowns and I think it requires further investigation, Dr. Olivia Dziadek, gynecologist with McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, said. All rights reserved. Glyphosateis from a class of chemicals known as endocrine disrupters. "As an oxide, titanium is found in minerals in the earth's crust and is also found with other elements, including calcium and iron. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. I wouldn't raise the alarm. There is some evidence to suggest that titanium dioxide may have a carcinogenic effect in some formats. Difference Between Regular and Organic Tampons, Best Overall: Organyc 100% Certified Organic Tampons, Best Eco-Friendly Applicator: Tampax Pure Organic Tampons, Best Cardboard Applicator: Oi Certified Organic Tampons, Best Applicator Free: Veeda Natural Cotton Applicator Free Tampons, Best for Light Flow: Seventh Generation Organic Cotton Tampons, Best for Heavy Flow: Lola Super Plus Organic Cotton Tampons, Best Variety Pack: Top Regular & Super Organic Tampons, Best Hypoallergenic Option: Cora Organic Cotton Tampons, Best Overnight Option: O.B. Regarding risk of cancer, there is an oft-cited study that shows that chronic high-level exposure of inhaled TiO2 could be linked to lung cancer in rats. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. Most brands only started listing their ingredients on their packages for the first time late last year (2021) thanks to a new law in New York state. These products are made from cotton and it is actually the cotton contained in these products that are the potential problem. According to Dr. Aly Cohen, founder & medical director of The Smart Human LLC, all of these studies are different. Titanium dioxide exposure would not be on that list. As the name suggests, these tampons are, indeed, organic, made of cotton and free of synthetic ingredientszero chemicals, fragrances or dyes involved. But what does it mean for tampons, pads, and reproductive health overall? "Best product ever," raved one customer. "[TiO2] may cause cancer based on studies done on animals, and it has been associated with lung cancer when inhaled," says Dr. Eyvazzadeh, which is why the government sets limits on exposure for workers. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals or EDCs can act like the naturally occurring hormones in your body. Since many of us have been loyal to the same feminine care products that we've been using since we first got our periods, you may have some questions before switching products. You may be surprised to learn that the FDA regulates tampons as medical devices. And putting the different limits aside, it can be hard to find titanium dioxide on labels because not all companies are required to list it. "But it's the dose, it's the route that makes the 'poison,' and so just because something might cause lung cancer, for example, doesn't mean it's going to cause an issue in a tampon. 4.7 out of 5 stars. What Are the Symptoms of Having Your Period? of using pads and tampons with titanium dioxidewe just don't know for certain. For more information on TSS, see the tampon safety tips, below. Missoula, MT 59807, Visit us in Denver No tampon should be used more than once. To be blunt, they are worried about the possibility of something happening that has never been demonstrated to happen, Marino said. Titanium dioxide doesnt dissolve in water, meaning the nanoparticles arent going to dissolve from the tampon string and get into the blood that might be pooling in the vagina and then get absorbed by the body, she wrote. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Organic Tampons, Best for Leak Protection: Rael Organic Cotton Tampons, Best Affordable Option: Just Cotton Core Tampons, Feminine Hygiene Products Are Selling Out, But We Found 10 You Can Still Buy Online, The 12 Best Laundry Detergents for Sensitive Skin of 2023, 10 Best Pillowcases and Protectors for People with Allergies, The 12 Best Socks for Sweaty Feet of 2023, Sleep Awards 2022: 30 Products to Help You Sleep Better, The 10 Best Kegel Balls of 2023, Reviewed and Approved, I Tried Freshly Meals for a WeekHere's My Honest Review, The 10 Best Latex Mattresses That Are Cooling, Comfortable, and Durable, The 9 Best Body Sunscreens Dermatologists Recommend for Year-Round Protection, Veeda Natural Cotton Applicator Free Tampons, Seventh Generation Organic Cotton Tampons, organic cotton tampons from Seventh Generation, super plus organic cotton tampons from Lola. "Similar to choosing organic vegetables, it's an alternative, but not necessarily better or safer for women to consume. Rates of reported TSS cases associated with tampons have declined significantly over the years. Mostly organic produce. There are a number of folks online recently worried about finding titanium dioxide as an ingredient in their tampons and pads - and wondering if it is related to some health conditions they. The tampons themselves are bleach, dye, and fragrance-free, and they're made with 100% organic cotton that is certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard. This is the case for period care products, even those made with organic cotton. "Titanium dioxide is the naturally occurring compound created when titanium reacts with oxygen in the air," explains endocrinologist and advisor at reproductive-health company Natalist, Skittles (and its parent company, Mars Inc.), approved titanium dioxide for human consumptionin 1966. including candies and other processed foods. Study after study has flagged concerns about the potential damaging effects of titanium dioxide on organs like the liver and kidney. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission. They are comfortable and easy to use, just make sure you press down completely on the applicator before removing (it sort of 'clicks' together). Meaning, you dont have to worry that the blood soaked tampon string is leaking titanium dioxide nanoparticles into your vagina.. ", Price at time of publication: $6.95 for 16 count. Very pleased with these. A company spokesperson told theSkimm that the ingredient represents much less than 0.1% of all ingredients used in a [P&G] tampon. And said its been used safely for years. With 8 million views, this instance shows the impact of a TikTokdespite the actual evidence to the contrary. We reject and actively push back against racist rhetoric, actions, policies and institutional oppression that leads to state-sanctioned brutality, gun violence, and harmthat again and again assaults communities, particularly communities of color. And do not smoke. But if you don't see the word titanium dioxide, that doesn't necessarily mean the chemical isn't in your tampons. While "titanium dioxide is natural, meaning found in nature," it doesn't necessarily mean it's healthy, says ob-gyn and pain medicine physician Jen Gunter, MD. If you use tampons, consider the following: If you have had discomfort or became ill as a result of using a tampon, consider reporting it to MedWatch, the FDAs safety information and adverse event reporting program. Other videos on TikTok pointed out that Mars, Inc. is currently being sued for not disclosing that Skittles contained titanium dioxide. The 12-page complaint says that despite the front-label promise that the tampons are entirely organic, they contain the non-organic ingredients polyester, glycerin, paraffin and titanium dioxide . Sunscreen can safely contain up to 25% titanium dioxide. In addition, more informative tampon labeling, as well as educational efforts by the FDA and manufacturers, may have contributed to the reduction in TSS cases. How do they not see that this is a dire health issue, they play it off as if we are losing our minds. Because there's so little conclusive research on the potential effects of titanium dioxide, you're not going to find clear, concise guidance for tampon shopping by studying up. Over the years, companies like Dunkin have announced theyre cutting ties with titanium dioxide (which used it for its powdered donuts). js.src = '//p2a.co/js/embed/widget/advocacywidget.min.js'; However, these studies were conducted on mice who orally consumed titanium dioxide, so we'll still need extensive clinical research on humans before we can definitively link TiO2 with reproductive disruptionor assume those risks definitely come from other intakes of the ingredient. Menstrual pads get even more complicated with top layers, middle layers of absorbent foam, super absorbent polymers, various waterproof backings, more fragrance, lots of coatings to wick fluid and aid absorption, lotion ingredients like petrolatum, adhesives made with styrene, more titanium dioxide to make it look whiter, as well as colored dyes for pretty designs. For all I know at this time, titanium dioxide in pads and tampons might be just fine, but Im not sure we have the science to prove it. Inhaling titanium dioxide may also result in adverse respiratory reactions, Dr. Gohar says. In addition, Marino stated that nanoparticles of titanium dioxide have been shown to cause inflammatory responses and potentially genetic damage in mice, but again pointed out that this has not occurred in humans. $46 at Amazon. It makes items white. Choose from Same Day Delivery, Drive Up or Order Pickup. Titanium dioxide might be one of these. According to the company, TiO2 represents less than 0.1% of all the ingredients they use to manufacture their tampons. Tampax. Lets look at the concerns around todays feminine hygiene products, specifically national brand tampons and pads. The .gov means its official.Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. The tampons come in both regular and super sizes, and customers say a regular size is a great option for light flow days. They also like the fact that the tampons are gynecologist-approved and from a women-owned business. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Im 27 years old. What is great is that we are reading the ingredients on these products and asking important questions about their safety. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you're on a federal government site. But no matter what your period product preference, you shouldn't be worried about whether it can harm your health. Everyone deserves to live in a healthy and safe environment. Sunscreens can have concentrations of up to 25%. The popularity of organic tampons has been on the rise lately as more and more people make the switch to all-natural products. But first. 4 Mistakes That Are Causing You to Waste Money on Skin-Care Serums, According to an Esthetician, These Are the Best Anti-Chafing Denim ShortsAccording to Some Very Happy Reviewers. The site is secure. Addressing a popular TikTok concern over titanium dioxide getting absorbed by the vagina, Gunter said that this doesnt happen because of titanium dioxides chemical composition. "So, if titanium dioxide is giving you anxiety that you just can't shake," there are plenty of period care products and trustworthy tampon brands you can try without the chemical, Dr. Gohar says. ", If you do decide to give organic tampons a try, Dr. Ross recommends checking the box for ingredients before buying. (If you reside outside of the U.S., please simply enter 00000 for zip code), ph:(406) 543-3747 | womensvoices@womensvoices.org | 2023 All rights reserved |, Introducing WVEs New Plan for a Thriving Future. Shoppers love that they are made from responsibly sourced, organic cotton and that their applicator is made from 92% of plant-based materials.
Is Tom Keene Married, Moana And Ginimbi Relationship, Nu Skin Self Tanner Cancer Warning, Power Shake Joe And The Juice Recipe, Articles OTHER