FDA launches investigation into tampons over risks from lead and other metals

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has launched an investigation into possible exposure to heavy metals in tamponsfollowing laboratory test results published earlier this year. The study, conducted by researchers at Columbia University, Michigan State University and the University of California, Berkeley, detected more than a dozen metals, including lead, arsenic and cadmium, in several popular brands of organic and non-organic tampons. The research found lead present in all of the products tested, withorganic tampons containing higher levels of lead and organic buffers that show higher levels of arsenic.

The FDA stressed that tampons must meet safety and effectiveness standards before they can be legally sold in the U.S., and manufacturers must conduct extensive testing of the materials used in the products. In a statement, the FDA explained that tampon manufacturers must test the product before, during, and after manufacturing to ensure safety. Biocompatibility testing is also part of the safety assessment reviewed by the FDA before products are approved for the market.

The agency plans to conduct two studies as part of its investigation. One will focus on laboratory testing to measure metal levels in tampons and assess potential exposure risks to consumers. The second will review existing research on the health impacts of metal exposure through tampon use.

An earlier study, published in the journal Environment International in June, analyzed 24 major and store-brand tampons purchased both online and in retail stores between September 2022 and March 2023. While the study found the presence of harmful metals, it did not assess whether these metals were released from the tampons during use, absorbed into the vaginal lining, or entered the bloodstream. The FDA’s upcoming study aims to address these concerns by simulating real-life tampon use and measuring potential metal release and absorption.

Cotton, rayon and viscose (materials commonly used in tampon manufacturing) are known to absorb metals from the soil or during the manufacturing process. Cotton, in particular, is very prone to absorbing metals, which could explain the contamination observed in the initial analysis.

Exposure to metals, especially lead, is dangerous, as even low levels can build up in the body over time and cause damage to various systems, including the brain, heart, kidneys, blood, reproductive system, and immune system. This is especially concerning when you consider that menstruation typically begins around age 12 and continues until menopause, around age 51, resulting in prolonged exposure for many people who use tampons.

The FDA has not provided a specific timeline for the completion of its investigation, but it aims to thoroughly evaluate the potential health risks associated with heavy metals in tampons and provide more concrete answers to consumers.