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    • Jul 15
    • 2 min read

Behind the Wrapper: Phthalates in Menstrual Products

Phthalates in menstrual products are a critical concern due to their potential health impacts and the lack of transparency surrounding their use by leading brands.

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Photo credits: Reproductive Health Supplies Coalition / Unsplash

Cora, Rael, Always, and Tampax are some of the prominent brands in the menstrual product industry, offering a variety of different menstrual care products such as tampons, pads, and more. Despite their commitment to menstrual health, many brands can withhold vital information from consumers surrounding the ingredients in their products. Recently, concerns have increased regarding harmful chemicals in menstrual products, especially after the discovery of toxic metals like lead and arsenic in tampons (refer to NPR link in references). While the presence of these toxic metals is highly alarming, it also highlights another critical issue: the use of phthalates and other harmful chemicals in menstrual products. This raises two important questions: What are phthalates, and why should users of menstrual products be concerned about them?



What are phthalates?


Phthalates are a family of chemicals often used to give plastics their flexibility (e.g., PVC, vinyl). These chemicals can be found in packaging, cleaning products, food, cosmetics, and even menstrual products. Some commonly used phthalates include Dibutyl phthalate, Diethyl phthalate, Butyl benzyl phthalate, Di-isononyl phthalate, and Di-isodecyl phthalate. Given their widespread use, this raises an important question:



What makes these chemicals harmful?


Phthalates, commonly used as plasticizers, are also known as endocrine disruptors. These man-made chemicals can mimic hormones, interfere with natural hormone pathways, and cause overreactions in the body. Notable examples of endocrine disruptors include BPA and DDT, which have been proven to be extremely harmful, particularly to pregnant women and babies exposed through cosmetic products. Studies have also linked these chemicals to a range of health issues, including asthma, obesity, and neurological disorders. Furthermore, endocrine disruptors have been associated with reproductive problems, developmental delays, and an increased risk of certain cancers.



So, if these chemicals have such harmful effects, why isn’t there more disclosure about them?


Some products may include labels indicating the presence or absence of phthalates, but many do not. This lack of transparency leaves consumers unaware of their exposure to these harmful chemicals. Phthalates are often disguised under the generic term "fragrance" in cosmetic products, further obscuring their true composition.


The widespread use of phthalates in household products should raise significant concerns among consumers. More dialogue is needed about the use of phthalates and other potentially harmful chemicals in household and menstrual products. Recently, Governor Phil Scott approved Vermont's first-ever ban on phthalates and several other harmful chemicals in menstrual products, marking a pivotal step toward a safer, more environmentally friendly future for all household items and their users. To sustain this progress, ongoing discussions are essential to raise awareness about the impact of these chemicals on our health and the environment.



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