Nina Davies
CEO
Millions of women, girls and people who menstruate rely on period products every month, yet the chemical safety of these everyday essentials remains largely overlooked.
WEN’s ‘Blood, Sweat and Pesticides’ Report shared independent laboratory testing that detected glyphosate, the world’s most widely used herbicide, in tampons purchased in the UK. The concentration was 40 times higher than the maximum level permitted in drinking water, raising concerns about exposure through vaginal absorption.
Plastic and pesticides in period products
Glyphosate is classified by the WHO as a probable carcinogen, and its breakdown product, AMPA, was also detected, indicating contamination somewhere in the cotton supply chain.
Many mainstream menstrual products also contain plastics such as polypropylene, polyethylene and polyester, along with adhesives, coatings and fragrances. These can expose the body to chemicals, including:
- Phthalates, used to soften plastics and known to disrupt hormones
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
- PFAS “forever chemicals,” added for absorbency and leak resistance
These substances can migrate from the product into the body, especially when used for hours at a time in warm, moist conditions.
The report emphasises that many chemicals in menstrual products are known endocrine disruptors, capable of interfering with hormonal systems
Endocrine‑disrupting chemicals (EDCs)
The report emphasises that many chemicals in menstrual products are known endocrine disruptors, capable of interfering with hormonal systems even at low levels. Long-term studies are required, but exposure has been linked to endometriosis, infertility, early puberty and hormone‑related cancers. Crucially, the report notes that “there are no safe levels of certain chemicals such as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs).”
Despite these risks, there’s still no legal requirement for manufacturers to disclose ingredients or test for pesticide residues in menstrual products. Until regulation catches up, consumers can feel like they’re in a limbo, navigating safety on their own.
Choosing brands, like Natracare, with certified organic products that transparently list ingredients, offers reassurance. Accreditations like the Nordic EcoLabel, Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and Made Safe can help signify which products have undergone third-party testing.
Natracare products are independently tested to be free from pesticides, plastics and chemicals of concern, and you can find these results on their website, giving peace of mind that your period care is as safe as it should be.
