The reality is that these products are under-researched so we just dont know what impacts they may be having on our health, because neither researchers or companies are asking the questions that need to be asked. So heres a refresher: Titanium dioxide is a naturally occurring mineral. Other videos on TikTok pointed out that Mars, Inc. is currently being sued for not disclosing that Skittles contained titanium dioxide. And suggested that the tampons from This Is L Inc are causing ovarian cysts. So companies need to come forward and explain what gives them confidence in using it. Thanks again for sharing your story its voices like yours that can make all the difference. And it would be a stretch to correlate a possible connection in rats to a true cause-and-effect in humans. You may want to talk with your health care provider about whether tampons are right for you. Here's what the experts suggest Keep it simple: Things like colorants, whiteners, and fragrances are not necessary to the product, Scranton said. The FDA has found that regulated amounts of titanium dioxide are considered safe. ", Price at time of publication: $12.74 for 16 count. For example, here's the ingredient list for Tampax Peal How do they not see that this is a dire health issue, they play it off as if we are losing our minds. 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. Only tampons that have been cleared by the FDA can be legally marketed in the U.S. Study after study has flagged concerns about the potential damaging effects of titanium dioxide on organs like the liver and kidney. If that is the case, you can avoid glyphosate by using alternative feminine hygiene products. This is the case for period care products, even those made with organic cotton. But it is becoming a controversial chemical. Shoppers love that these organic Tampax tampons have an applicator that is comfortable and easy to use. Tampax comes in light, regular, and super absorbencies and . Once that social media seed is planted, it is extremely difficult to convince people otherwise. 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 . Let's take a moment to review cotton production and the concept of GMO (genetically modified organism) farming. ", One shopper wrote, "I used to use Tampax, but things changed as I got older and I needed something more absorbent and more comfortable. We all deserve safe products and all you need to do is ask. However there is not enough proof showing titanium dioxide coloring in tampons to be harmful. 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. Along with being hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested, the tampons feature twisted organic cotton fibers for added absorbency. Very pleased with these. js.src = '//p2a.co/js/embed/widget/advocacywidget.min.js'; In addition to being gynecologist-tested, the tampons are also biodegradable and free from fragrances, dyes, synthetics, and chemicals. No rayon, dyes, perfumes, colors, or chlorine is used to make them either. Morgan explains that she learned about the purported dangers of these tampons after TikTok showed her a video of a girl using the same brand that had experienced two weeks of excessive bleeding and extreme pain, ovarian cysts, and irreversible uterine damage. The TikTok user who posted the video makes theclaim that TiO2 has been linked to cancer and multiple gynecological issues. The highly absorbent products are made without any dioxides, polyester, pesticides, or fragrances, and they are applicator-free. 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. Visit our press room or contact our communications director. 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. But the video is raising important questions: What is titanium dioxide? Inhaling titanium dioxide may also result in adverse respiratory reactions, Dr. Gohar says. One reason is that the FDA evaluates whether a tampon enhances the growth of the bacteria that causes TSS before the product can be legally marketed. Pain Inserting a Tampon? Likely in your daily life, you have much more significant exposures to this class of chemicals. Case in point: exposure to titanium dioxide may destroy good gut microbes, cause gut dysfunction and increase intestinal inflammation, according to a February 2021 systematic review of animal studies published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.. And its important to note that individual experiences are valid. Free standard shipping with $35 orders. This disruption of certain biological pathways can lead to the development of the disease. At TOTM, we can confirm that we do not use titanium dioxide at any stage of our . 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. "could no longer be considered safe" as a food additive, ban TiO2 as a food additive earlier this year, classifies tampons and pads as medical devices, are recommended, but not required, to list their ingredients, may cause cancer based on studies done on animals, government sets limits on exposure for workers, not found any clear link between lung cancer, titanium dioxide can cause alterations to the reproductive system, 26 percent of the global population are of reproductive age. Estimated ship . https://www.ccohs.ca/headlines/text186.html, [2] EFSA (2021) Titanium dioxide: E171 no longer considered safe when used as a food additive. 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. However, trouble arose for the ingredient in 2021 when the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) issued a statement that titanium dioxide "could no longer be considered safe" as a food additive. And Scranton thinks that the more people read and learn about what theyre using, the more likely theyll push for change. Skimm'd by Maria del Carmen Corpus, Maria McCallen, and Kamini Ramdeen-Chowdhury. 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. Mostly organic produce. And that is what I encourage you all to do to contact the manufacturers of the products you use. You can opt-out at any time. While experts agree more studies need to be done on titanium dioxides potential impact on reproductive health, one person's video is motivating millions of people to take control of their health and question what they consume every day. Consider this important information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)and please share this information with other people who may use these products. Some tampons include titanium dioxide, which makes them appear whiter and brighter. Thanks, So sorry to hear of your experience it is indeed a frustrating situation. Also, it may be genotoxic, meaning it can harm your DNA. ", Price at time of publication: $10 for 16 count. However, as of 2022, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) still . For more information on TSS, see the tampon safety tips, below. Sunscreens can have concentrations of up to 25%. 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. }(document, 'script', 'advocacy-actionwidget-code')); Womens Voices for the Earth 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. Since tampons are inserted inside our bodies for hours at a time, it makes sense that people would have safety concerns, but Dr. Ross says there is no reason for concern. TikTokers are raising concern about titanium dioxide, a whitening agent, in organic tampons. And it functions the same in tampons: Titanium dioxide serves as a coloring agent to make your period products appear whiter, Dr. Gohar says. Still, peoples stories on social media have left many shaken. Though some research identified a link between the . It is the mostwidely used white pigment because of its brightness and very high refractive index meaning that its "brilliant whiteness" does not allow light to pass through. I would recommend sharing your story with the company they have long claimed that they get very few complaints for their period products, which we believe to be a lack of reporting rather than a lack of problems. I cant guarantee that the FDA will take any immediate action, but it can help get their attention, if they see a number of reports associated with a product. What we need to think about is, if that's what can happen within the gut, there's a lot to be said for what can happen in the vaginal area., Scranton is among the many experts who agree that its a topic that requires more investigation. No applicator also means less plastic, less waste, and they're also way more discreet, and I can pack more of them into a smaller space. Here arefivesteps you can start applying today: Do this, not that: Simple swaps to boost your wellness, More: Why Epsom salt should be a staple in your home medicine cabinet, Michael Daignault, MD, is a board-certified ER doctor in Los Angeles. While paying $300 a month for health insurance. at the Posner Center Try These OB-GYN-Recommended, Titanium Dioxide-Free Period Products Rael Organic Cotton Tampons ($13.99 for a 32-count box on Amazon.com) August Tampons ($11 for a 16-count box on Itsaugust.co) Diva Cup ($39.99 for one menstrual cup on Divacup.com) Advertisement references Is this an emergency? It wasnt that long ago (read: 2020) that a New York law requiring ingredients to be listed in period product packaging went into effect. Media inquiries? In fact, in 2021 the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) declared titanium dioxide no longer safer as a food additive. Shes getting checked for fucking cancer. "I love these non-applicator tampons," raved one reviewer. 4.7 out of 5 stars. js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; The popularity of organic tampons has been on the rise lately as more and more people make the switch to all-natural products. Morgans TikTok has received more than 30,000 comments on the platform and spurred countlessvideoresponses from other users and creators swearing off L. tampons and any other tampons with titanium dioxide. 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. Tampons are not intended to be used at any other time or . Here are 11 organic tampons that reviewers love. Protective wrap stands up to the roughest of travel and yet is easily unwrapped so no time is wasted. Read our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions. Are We Seeing the End of Scented Tampons? Price at time of publication: $16 for 20 count. "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. Felt they had the same or better absorbency. By now, you may have seen the viral video of the girl finding Titanium Dioxide and Polyester in her L Organic tampons and what's crazy is, I even had some of the same brand here at home. Just because someone had health problems after they used something doesnt necessarily mean an ingredient in that thing caused the problem, Wallace said. But no matter what your period product preference, you shouldn't be worried about whether it can harm your health. It's also is often used to make things like paint, and most relevant for our purposes, it's used to make pads and tampons appear whiter. "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. According to the brand, the tampons feature a unique design that keeps "fluids locked in the core for added security. Peter Weiss, MD, is a board-certified OB/GYN and expert in women's health. He studied Global Health at Georgetown University and has a Medical Degree from Ben-Gurion University. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); (function(d, s, id) { I will share what I know about titanium dioxide in tampons! Aimee Eyvazzadeh, MD. Chemistry class was a long time ago. Andrea Chisolm, MD, is a board-certified OB/GYN who has taught at both Tufts University School of Medicine and Harvard Medical School. So you can choose whether or not you want to accept a possible risk to have a whiter tampon OR choose a brand that doesnt include it. It is important to note that studies in rats, mice and other animals are not directly applicable to humans. Theres also period underwear. Well+Good decodes and demystifies what it means to live a well life, inside and out. Not only are the tampons made from 100% certified organic cotton, but the rounded cardboard applicators are fully biodegradable, making them a fantastic eco-friendly product. "[P]revious studies have shown that titanium dioxide can cause alterations to the reproductive system, including reducing the ovarian follicles and leading to the formation of ovarian cysts," she says. Best Organic Tampons. Tampons are designed to be inserted into the vagina with or without an applicator. ", Dr. Eyvazzadeh and Flynn agree that it's okay to approach the ingredient with caution. It became the first state in the nation to do so. If something is white, it often has titanium dioxide. No issues with the applicator and love the discreet packaging. Tampons cleared by the FDA are meant to be used one time and then thrown away. Estimated ship dimensions: 2.795 inches length x 4.37 inches width x 5.669 inches height. We are committed to working for justice and equity, and are in solidarity with social, racial, and environmental justice organizations to build community, understanding and honest dialogue to address the root causes of violence, harm and hate. A viral TikTok video is spreading misinformation that an ingredient occasionally found in tampons titanium dioxide can cause cancer. 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. In its report, the EFSA reported that they couldn't rule out the possibility that titanium dioxide caused damage to DNA ("genotoxicity")and thus couldn't establish a safe level of daily intake. Given the mixed reviews on the substance, it's obvious why some are concerned about consuming it. So we talked to gynecologists to get the scoop on everything you need to know about organic tampons. That being said, you may choose to avoid this particular potential exposure. Ultimately the end product produced from the cotton may also contain some amount of the chemical. The simple answer is nothere is no scientific evidence that organic tampons are safer than other options on the market. This means that farmers could use this herbicide to kill the weeds in their fields without worrying about it harming the cotton crops. It is thought that exposure to the developing fetus may be the time when these chemicals have some of the most significant impacts on future health. Meanwhile, other countries are cracking down on the coloring agent. 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 are experiencing like ovarian cysts, miscarriages, UTIs and more. ", The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved titanium dioxide for human consumptionin 1966, cementing its presence in a variety of foods, including candies and other processed foods. These [are comfortable and] do what they need to, and I don't need to worry about leaks the way I used to. But there's not much research to tell us what the potential effects are of TiO2 in certain other formats, like if you eat a little bit of it in food, or regularly insert small amounts of it in your body via a tampon for a few days each month. 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. Just last year the European Food Safety Authority concluded that titanium dioxide can no longer be considered safe in food, because of genotoxicity concerns [2]. If you have sensitive skin, these hypoallergenic, certified organic cotton tampons from Cora might be just what you're looking for. 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. Delivered to your inbox every morning and prepares you for your day in minutes. Let's look at the concerns around today's feminine hygiene products, specifically national brand tampons and pads. And how can we learn more about the products were using? 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. "I love that these are eco-friendly, biodegradable, and non-toxic," wrote one. of signs you need emergency medical attention or call 911. 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. 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. And then look up and vet the products that we do have available.. "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. Meanwhile, Procter & Gamble, which carries the brands This Is L, Always, and Tampax, has been responding to concerns surrounding titanium dioxide in its products. ", Price at time of publication: $13.98 for 36 count. Hundreds of Walmart shoppers have given the tampons a near-perfect rating, with many raving about how they're absorbent and comfortable. womensvoices@womensvoices.org. This finding prompted the European Union to ban TiO2 as a food additive earlier this year, but in the U.S., the ingredient is still considered to be safe in food at the limits set by the FDA. But we [also] don't have the data to support, Don't worry about this. So what can you do to stay healthy and safe? Titanium dioxide was news to me; no companies have ever disclosed using it before. Pro tip: It can also appear as Pigment White 6 and White Pigment in packaging. Theres been a lot of alarmist concern, she said. There are many substances, including medications, that we safely encounter or consume on a regular basis. People have gotten into a debate over whether or not organic tampons and pads shorten the length of menstrual cycles. He is also a former United States Peace Corps Volunteer. That environment includes where you live, work, play, and pray. I used this exact brand. L. Organic Cotton Ultra Thin Pads for Women, Regular Absorbency, Free from Chlorine Bleaching Pesticides Fragrances Or Dyes, 84 Count. This needs to be properly investigated. Alexandra Scranton, Director of Science and Research. So while on the one hand no study has positively linked titanium dioxide exposure to ovarian cancer, or miscarriages, or UTIs we also simply dont have the science to assure us that this kind of exposure is perfectly safe either. ", Price at time of publication: $11.25 for 32 count. And even heard from the company behind the tampons in question. If you don't want to take any chances with this ingredient, try these organic products instead. The problem is, although the cotton is resistant to the effects of the herbicide glyphosate, the chemical is still absorbed by the plant. Keep in mind that sometimes titanium dioxide might also be listed as white pigment or pigment white 6 so look for those terms as well. Shoppers are fans of the tampon's compact design that fits in the palm of their hand, allowing them to discreetly carry one to the bathroom. I started switching to organic food, so why not beauty/hygiene products as well? Gizmodo reached out to TikTok multiple times on Thursday to ask if it would take any action on content crying wolf about the dangers of titanium dioxide and tampons but did not receive a response. Here's why: sometimes the substance is also noted as "Pigment White 6" or "White Pigment," Dr. Gohar explains. If youre still super worried, and I hear you, then use something else, like pads or menstrual cups or whatnot, Lincoln, who has 2.8 million followers on TikTok, said. The decision was based on available scientific research which, although not totally conclusive, found that an accumulation of titanium dioxide in the body could possibly contribute to genotoxicity (i.e., damage at the DNA level that may lead to cancer). Andrea Chisolm, MD, is a board-certified OB/GYN who has taught at both Tufts University School of Medicine and Harvard Medical School. This is why we fight tirelessly for ingredient transparency and your right to know! Unfortunately, this question doesnt have a simple answer. If you use tampons during your period (or menstruation), its important to know how to use them safely. But what does it mean for tampons, pads, and reproductive health overall? Including how tampons affect vaginal bacteria. Aka a common coloring agent. Certainly the laws and the regulatory issues are so paramount because that's how we got into this pickle to begin with, Dr. Cohen said. As an emergency roomdoctor, there would be many possible (and more likely) emergency room causes of excessive menstrual bleeding that I would evaluate a patient for. 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. WVEs Director of Science and Research, Alex Scranton, addresses your questions about titanium dioxide in tampons and pads in this session of #AskAlex. The main difference between regular and organic tampons are the materials used when making them. (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. If you can find products that don't have them, that's gonna lessen your exposure., Follow the less is more approach: Meaning [the] lowest possible use of anything that has not been tested properly, Dr. Cohen said. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. of using pads and tampons with titanium dioxidewe just don't know for certain. Plus, titanium dioxide is not water soluble, so it's unlikely to be dissolved and absorbed vaginally, according to the National Library of Medicine. Another familiar one: Tampax is similar to Kotex in that these are your everyday, typical tampons. Are common multivitamins worth the money? We all know social media is a breeding ground for misinformation and disinformation.
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