Heavy Metals, Fragrances, and EDCs in Our Products

+ a recap of the latest heavy metal issue in tampons

Unfortunately, as with many aspects of women's health and hormones, research, testing, and precautions often lag behind, leaving women (and their hormones) vulnerable.

This backdrop was underscored by recent news concerning tampons—

a study from the University of California revealed the presence of arsenic and lead in these commonly used products.

So, what does this mean for you?

Should you be concerned?

and what can you use instead?

But before delving into the specifics, it's crucial to acknowledge a broader issue: this scenario is all too familiar in women's health.

In our consumer-driven world, women are bombarded with products promising to make them "prettier," "cleaner," and "smell better," (FYI babe, you’re perfect as you are ♥️ )

yet these very products can pose serious health risks.

and with all of this in mind, the responses I often get leave me discouraged:

“this is fear mongering—— we don’t have enough research…”

In fact, this post just started giving me some push back which is why I started writing this article in the first place

So with that, let’s also remember

women’s health research was not common practice until 1986….

hint: so yes, research is lacking

and even so, we’re still seeing that the research that IS emerging is not very promising AND that it takes roughly ~17 years for research to make its way into practice

hint: products will continue using these chemicals for a while longer. That doesn’t necessarily mean it is safe

So what is my approach?

absence of evidence does not = evidence of absence

when we’re dealing with something new (i.e., new chemicals in cosmetics), air on the side of caution until it has passed the test of time (meaning studies have definitively proven it’s safe over a long period of time)

again this is MY take.

This is what I share with clients.

If you disagree, that’s totally fine! We each are entitled to our own approach and opinions. But meeting it with curiosity and openness is what we try and do here.

So with that understanding, let’s dive in 👇

here’s what we’re covering this issue:

• the down low on endocrine disruptors

• the latest tampon heavy metal news brief

• fragrances, VOCs and more in our cosmetics

• alternatives to consider instead

Understanding Endocrine Disruptors

Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are chemicals that interfere with the body's hormonal systems.

They work by either mimicking, interfering or blocking hormone production - and oftentimes, this effect takes place with estrogen.

The issue is that EDCs can lead to adverse developmental, reproductive, neurological, and immune effects.

And yet, they are be found in everyday products such as cosmetics, plastics, cleaning agents, and our food.

The most prevalent EDCs tend to be:

• phthalates (i.e., plastics)

• BPA (in cans)

• parabens (cosmetics)

• PFAS (think: nonstick)

• pesticides (like organophosphates)

• heavy metals (like lead, arsenic, cadmium, mercury, etc)

• brominated flame retardants and PFRs (often in furniture)

now, it isn’t to say that acute exposure will have repercussions. But rather, that we live in a world where our body is constantly exposed to all of those factors overtime.

It creates a heavy toxin burden.

And the impacts of these EDCs on our also health ain’t new

And for those that want the research to get them started 👇

• 2014 study found that BPA exposure can impact egg maturation and lower estrogen levels.

• 2016 reviews EDCs on fibroid development, and even links the (minimal) experimental research we have available.

• Prospective cohort study in 2013 found that higher urinary BPA concentrations were associated with lower antral follicle count

• This 2017 study found that common EDCs can impact female reproduction

• Large 2011 study found that BPA and phthalates impact thyroid function

plus I wrote this article a while back that is filled with studies as well

catch my drift 😏

so with that in mind, what the heck is going on with the tampons?

Heavy Metals in Tampons:

Last week, a study conducted by the University of California was published that investigated the presence of heavy metals in tampons from various brands.

The study examined 30 tampons sourced from 14 different brands available on the market (haven’t released which ones….)

The objective was to analyze and quantify the levels of heavy metals present in these commonly used feminine hygiene products.

this is the first study to ever look at heavy metals and tampons (sound the “seriously….” )

THE RESULTS:

The findings of the study revealed notable concentrations of 16 different metals across the tampons tested.

These metals included lead, arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and others.

The study highlighted significant differences between non-organic and organic tampons:

• Lead Levels: Non-organic tampons were found to have higher levels of lead compared to their organic counterparts.

• Arsenic Levels: Conversely, organic tampons showed higher levels of arsenic.

The presence of these heavy metals in tampons raises concerns about potential health impacts, especially considering the direct contact these products have with intimate and sensitive areas of the body.

THE LIMITATIONS:

Like any scientific study, the University of California's research on heavy metals in tampons has its limitations:

• Sample Size: The study analyzed a relatively small sample size of 30 tampons from 14 brands. While it provides valuable insights, larger-scale studies should be done to confirm and generalize these findings across a wider range of products.

• Geographical Variability: Results may vary based on geographic location, manufacturing processes, and other factors that influence heavy metal contamination.

I’m also seeing a lot of comments like “heavy metals are everywhere; there’s arsenic in rice, etc.” And this is true!

We can’t eliminate every exposure to heavy metals.

But when we’re thinking about inserting something into our system in an area that has a high absorption rate, being mindful of what is in the product seems important.

(plus, there are guidelines how much rice to consume considering the arsenic)

The Takeaway:

Heavy metals are present in tampons - full stop.

Whether this has an impact or not is still up to debate - but the presence of heavy metals in these products is clear.

Why does this matter?

Well, as this study pointed out, the skin of the vagina has a higher potential for chemical absorption than skin elsewhere on the body.

We know that vaginal tissue is highly absorbable, making this of particular concern (higher risk than lets say putting something on our thigh for example).

+ women use tampons several days monthly for several hours at a time over the course of decades.

And with that, the tampon controversy is not even new - a 2022 watchdog study found that 22% of of tampons tested positive for PFAs (+68% of period underwear and 48% of pads).

So we’re accumulating more information here on how this has an impact.

While research is still currently saying “we can’t determine the impact on health at this time,” in my opinion, it is common sense to proceed with awareness and caution in light of these findings, in knowing through previous research the negative impacts that heavy metals have, and the vulnerability women then have to this exposure.

But unfortunately, this isn’t the only space that EDCs slide into.

Fragrances and VOCs

The presence of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) in everyday products is not a new concern nor isolated to just tampons.

From perfumes and scented deodorants to various personal care items, these products warrant scrutiny due to their potential to impact human health, particularly concerning fertility and reproductive processes.

So what are fragrances and VOCs?

Fragrances are complex mixtures of chemicals designed to emit aromas and often include things like phthalates and VOCs (a subgroup known for their ability to vaporize and disperse into the air at room temperature).

When applied, these products release EDCs that can linger in the air and adhere to skin and clothing, thereby potentially exposing individuals to their effects over extended periods.

The issue is that VOCs and phthalates can act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormone function in the body:

• Estrogenic Effects: they can mimic estrogen, the primary female sex hormone. Prolonged exposure to these substances can disrupt the delicate hormonal balance critical for reproductive health, menstrual cycles, and overall wellbeing.

• Thyroid Interference: they may interfere with thyroid function, which regulates metabolism, growth, and reproductive health. Thyroid disruption can have profound effects on fertility and overall hormonal health in women.

• Ovulation and Fertility Issues: Studies have suggested a potential link between exposure to VOCs, pthalates and fertility problems in women. These compounds can disrupt hormonal balance, potentially leading to irregular ovulation and reduced fertility.

and they are found everywhere from 🛎️ tampons 🛎️ to perfumes, shampoos to cosmetics, candles and more.

In Fertility Clinics:

To emphasize the seriousness of this issue, consider the policies in fertility clinics. It's a well-documented fact that many fertility clinics prohibit their staff from using perfumes or strong scents. This isn't merely a precaution against discomfort but a proactive measure due to concerns over how volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in these products can potentially affect egg, sperm, and embryo development.

Now of course, we are not just an egg cell. How our body responds to fragrances will be different than a single cell. But while we’re concerned about a very small acute exposure for egg cells, in day to day practice, we’re applying these products DAILY, directly to the skin, for YEARS at a time.

And our exposure to EDCs throughout our life isn’t acute - but constantly accumulating and deserves a bit of oversight.

Research Findings

while this is not a comprehensive list, some jumping off points to start you down this area of research include:

• A study published in 2019 highlighted how phthalates (think: a compound in fragrances) can impact fertility parameters and PCOS.

• This review that looked at how phthalates and aromatic products can impact various reproductive factors.

• Another study that looked at 265 women and found that exposure to phthalates lead to decreased egg yield. This study highlighted that a primary exposure to this is through things like shampoos, conditions, deodorants, etc.

• This one that looked at 325 females and found that phthalate exposure was associated with fertility concerns (exposure was primarily through plastics, makeup, sunscreen, etc.).

• This 2017 review on how different EDCs can impact ovaries and the need for more research and difficulty in testing for these things

• This review found that men with higher levels of a laundry detergent chemical had decreased sperm quantity.

• A paper on the negative impacts of fragrances

• In fact, even ACOG weighs in. In this 2021 document, they state that one of the strategies to support reproductive outcomes include “using fragrance free rather than scented or unscented products” and in 2013 they released this manuscript describing ways to deal with lowering overall toxin burden, saying that decreasing exposure to phthalates and BPA, etc. should be encouraged.

and if we need a refresher on what EDCs are and where to find them, check out this NIH review.

+ there are also many many more findings out there (including some done on rodents looking at exposure).

So with all of this in mind:

yes the research is still emerging

no, we don’t have clarity on dose-dependency and “how much is too much”

yes, we know that fragrances, VOCs, heavy metals, etc. act as endocrine disruptors

yes, we should keep this in mind when considering our overall toxic burden and making informed choices as a consumer.

Alternatives to Consider:

so what to do now?

I know this was a research heavy article. My intention is never to drive fear but to trust that you are able to use knowledge to make an informed choice. If by the end of this, you’re thinking “hmm, this is too much, I’m gonna stick with my perfume” or “the evidence still doesn’t feel convincing” do you boo 😚 we each have our own needs, understanding, accessibility, etc.

But if you are looking for next steps 👇 here is where I’d start.

Do an home-environment sweep and make swaps where you can. For example, if you use non-stick pans, consider switching to stainless steel. If you use strong laundry detergent, maybe go for an unscented option.

Consider pads: while they still might also contain heavy metals and EDCs, at least you lessen the impact by not having it against the highly absorbable vaginal tissue.

Be mindful of tampons: at least until a list of the brands tested are released. Plus, tampons can also worsen cramps hun

Go for fragrance free products and read labels: Look for products that list ingredients and avoid those with vague terms like "fragrance" or "parfum," which can hide a multitude of chemicals.

Choose Natural Alternatives: Opt for products that use natural essential oils or are labeled as free from synthetic fragrances.

Ventilation: Improve indoor air quality by ensuring adequate ventilation, especially in enclosed spaces where VOCs can accumulate.

Find other ways to lower your toxic burden: if nixing tampons and perfumes aren’t your thing, then consider where else you can lower your burden. Maybe it is by shopping organic or changing your detergent. We all have different access and priorities, so maybe start small and move from there.

Final Thoughts:

As consumers become more informed, advocating for greater transparency in fragrance labeling, product testing and choosing safer alternatives can mitigate potential risks.

The journey towards healthier choices in personal care is not just about smelling good or doing what’s convenient —it’s about preserving our hormonal health and fertility for the long term.

By understanding the science behind fragrances, heavy metals, and EDCs, we can empower ourselves to make informed decisions that promote both personal well-being and environmental health.

As research continues to evolve, so too should our approach to chemicals and heavy metals in our environment

So while the debate on these things continue, one thing is clear: knowledge and curiosity are our best friend when it comes to making choices that support our hormonal health and fertility.

Written while taking deep breaths with the instagram bullies 😚