15826245f15f2e664c1e3a433543b5844be72 titanium dioxide in tampons

", Price at time of publication: $6.95 for 16 count. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. Including. Both TikTok users are falling prey to the correlation, not causation trap. Even better, for every box of tampons sold in the United States, the brand donates 43 cents to nonprofit organizations to offset the "period tax" and help make period products more accessible to women in need. Here are 11 organic tampons that reviewers love. "[TiO2] may cause cancer based on studies done on animals, and it has been associated with lung cancer when inhaled," says Dr. Eyvazzadeh, which is why the government sets limits on exposure for workers. 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. I changed them every 2-3 hours, and even then I'd feel dry and chaffed or just felt them there. 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. Still, more studies in humans need to be performed to verify this finding. "Similar to choosing organic vegetables, it's an alternative, but not necessarily better or safer for women to consume. For more details, see our Privacy Policy. 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). Myths about aluminum and deodorant, explained. However, as of 2022, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) still . This summer's viral TikTok on titanium dioxide in tampons focused on the brand This is L., which was acquired by Procter and Gamble in 2019. And many of these chemicals have been associated with contributing to cancer and other medical problems. ", Dr. Eyvazzadeh and Flynn agree that it's okay to approach the ingredient with caution. We are starting to recognize the health concerns of this class of chemicals. 1031 33rd Street a lot of people online are upset with tampon brands (tampax and L. specifically) because they include titanium dioxide in the tampons, which apparently can cause reproductive harm. 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. a woman on tiktok said that she "has been bleeding for 13 days, has ovarian cysts, and has to check for cancer" because she's used the L. brand tampons. Tampons are one method of absorbing menstrual flow during your period. The FDA classifies tampons and pads as medical devices, and thus manufacturers of these products are recommended, but not required, to list their ingredients. 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. 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. polyester, glycerin, paraffin, titanium dioxide. This is the case for period care products, even those made with organic cotton. Titanium dioxide is a white powder and a common ingredient in many products. During clinical trials the amount of titanium dioxide used have not shown any increased health risks and there have been no big outbreaks of things like ovarian cysts associated with titanium oxide tampons. There are several health concerns regarding TiO2. These products are made from cotton and it is actually the cotton contained in these products that are the potential problem. WVEs Director of Science and Research, Alex Scranton, addresses your questions about titanium dioxide in tampons and pads in this session of #AskAlex. According to the brand, these organic O.b. So what can you do to stay healthy and safe? National Library of Medicines list The popularity of organic tampons has been on the rise lately as more and more people make the switch to all-natural products. But this amount varies by product. Titanium dioxide, or TiO2, is a naturally occurring mineral comprised of titanium and oxygen. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); (function(d, s, id) { Thanks, So sorry to hear of your experience it is indeed a frustrating situation. Exposure to these chemicals can then interfere with important processes in your body. Meaning, you dont have to worry that the blood soaked tampon string is leaking titanium dioxide nanoparticles into your vagina.. $46 at Amazon. "You will want to make sure they are composed of 100% organic cotton, free of chemicals, rayon, and synthetics, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, not bleached with chlorine, dioxin free, and free of additive chemicals.". Estimated ship dimensions: 2.795 inches length x 4.37 inches width x 5.669 inches height. L. Organic Cotton Regular and Super Absorbency Compact Tampons 76CT. Tampons are designed to be inserted into the vagina with or without an applicator. Bottom line: "When it comes to period products, the priority should be using products that you feel comfortable with and are accessible to you," he says. Dr. Jennifer Gunter, an OB/GYN and frequent debunker of outrageous and fake advice online, is one of the doctors that came out this week to try to reassure individuals that their tampons were not toxic death sticks.. Most brands only started listing their ingredients on their packages for the first time late last year (2021) thanks to a new law in New York state. $17.50 ($0.24/Count) Sold by Utopia Distributors and ships from Amazon Fulfillment. Shipping details. Another familiar one: Tampax is similar to Kotex in that these are your everyday, typical tampons. Information reported to MedWatch helps the FDA to ensure tampons remain safe and effective. What's great is that people are asking these questions, Scranton said. These popular period products are perfect for women with heavy flows because they are designed to expand in all directions to prevent leaks. And performed in ways that account for different titanium dioxide levels and time of exposure. What we have now is some really interesting studies on titanium dioxide, showing that there's a disruption of the gut microbiome when you ingest it, Dr. Cohen said. I have been researching health impacts of pads and tampons for nearly a decade, so I love having all this new ingredient info. The FDA has found that regulated amounts of titanium dioxide are considered safe. 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. 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. Titanium dioxide, or TiO 2, is a naturally occurring mineral that takes the form of a tasteless, white powder, according to the National Institutes of Health. However, larger quantities of titanium dioxide might be damaging if ingested, Dr. Gohar says. Although there were also doctors and experts trying to quell the panic, like Dr. Jennifer Lincoln, they were, unfortunately, a minority. Pain Inserting a Tampon? "Didn't get the weird tingling that other tampons can give you. Is the Acrylamide in Coffee Actually Bad for You? L. brand tampons use titanium dioxide as pigment in the thread that attaches the stringto the absorbent part of the tampon. "I love these non-applicator tampons," raved one reviewer. Before you start gathering all your tampons and scouring their ingredient lists, you should know that experts want you to chill and stop worrying: Your tampons are safe. 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. Probably, at this point in time, the best answer is, We dont know. Likely the amount of glyphosate in feminine hygiene products is relatively small. There is accumulating data suggesting an association with the EDCs (including the glyphosate found in cotton) with several conditions including but not limited to: This is a complicated question. Sunscreens can have concentrations of up to 25%. Chemicals are everywhere. And certainly there are a few red flags with titanium dioxide, so its not unreasonable to be concerned. 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. if (d.getElementById(id)) return; 4.7 out of 5 stars. And many of these chemicals have been associated with contributing to cancer and other medical problems. The danger is that people will listen to the sensationalized viral video, instead of having a real conversation about risks with their doctor or health care provider.. Typically, "higher doses can be used topically in a safe manner," he says. So what do you do instead? So, why would they use an ingredient that can be considered cariogenic and cause reproductive issues with tampons? But what does it mean for tampons, pads, and reproductive health overall? According to Dr. Aly Cohen, founder & medical director of The Smart Human LLC, all of these studies are different. Alkaline water:Should you be splurging to make your body less acidic? Chemistry class was a long time ago. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals or EDCs can act like the naturally occurring hormones in your body. There is some evidence to suggest that titanium dioxide may have a carcinogenic effect in some formats. 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. Which supplements are most likely to land you in the ER? Some tampons include titanium dioxide, which makes them appear whiter and brighter. And Scranton thinks that the more people read and learn about what theyre using, the more likely theyll push for change. Myths about aluminum and deodorant, explained, Ive written multiple times in this column. 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. This is what manufacturers need to know that people are reading these things and asking these questions.. The rule for food items is that the coloring agent can't exceed 1% of the food's weight. (no offense) 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. The only tampons cleared or approved by the FDA are designed for single-use. But their favorite part seems to be the fact that they are made from 90% plant-based materials. Sunscreens can have concentrations of up to 25%. 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. A viral TikTok video is spreading misinformation that an ingredient occasionally found in tampons titanium dioxide can cause cancer. "If this worries you, then don't use products that have this," Jennifer Lincoln, MD, shared in a video. Just because someone had health problems after they used something doesnt necessarily mean an ingredient in that thing caused the problem, Wallace said. These Veeda tampons are as eco-friendly as they can possibly get. 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. 3 Safety Considerations for Silica Supplements. (If you reside outside of the U.S., please simply enter 00000 for zip code), ph:(406) 543-3747 | [email protected] | 2023 All rights reserved |, Introducing WVEs New Plan for a Thriving Future. TikTokers are raising concern about titanium dioxide, a whitening agent, in organic tampons. The potential problem lies in the specific chemical. Tens of thousands of users have flooded the comments many claiming to have had similar experiences. ", Price at time of publication: $7.95 for 14 count. It gets used in a LOT of products and its probably been in tampons and pads for a long time (just never listed on the label before). The reality of life today is that you are bombarded with multiple chemical exposures. "According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), regulated doses of titanium dioxide are not harmful, but this also varies based on use," Dr. Gohar says. And suggested that the tampons from This Is L Inc are causing ovarian cysts. The nice thing is that finally companies are at least required to tell you what is in their products. I believe we all have a responsibility to better and more critically appraise social media content, particularly with regard to health and medical information. Mounting evidence has resulted in the World Health Organization labeling glyphosate as a probable human carcinogen. So companies need to come forward and explain what gives them confidence in using it. This lack of data is incredibly frustrating, given that 26 percent of the global population are of reproductive age and presumably using pads and tampons on the regular to manage their cycles. According to the brand, the tampons feature a unique design that keeps "fluids locked in the core for added security. AT AMAZON. Overall, what i know is there is two types of titanium dioxide but now the food grade is considered unfit for Skittles. In addition, Marino stated that nanoparticles of titanium dioxide have been shown to cause inflammatory responses and potentially genetic damage in mice, but again pointed out that this has not occurred in humans. Have a beautiful child. This is why we fight tirelessly for ingredient transparency and your right to know! This disruption of certain biological pathways can lead to the development of the disease. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists along with the American Reproductive Medicine Society have published a statement encouraging doctors to discuss environmental exposures including certain chemicals especially before and during pregnancy. We spoke to ob-gyn James A. Gohar, MD, co-founder and CEO of Viva Eve, to set the record straight on this substance in question, including whether it poses any risk to your reproductive health (or otherwise) and which tampon products are safest. The 2023 Complete Python Certification Bootcamp Bundle, Mourning the Loss of Addison Raes Debut Album | The Meme Machine. I am less concerned with the level of titanium dioxide in tamponsthan I am with how social media users dangerously, and unchecked, amplifymisinformation. How do they not see that this is a dire health issue, they play it off as if we are losing our minds. 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. js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; Titanium dioxide is commonly found in countless everyday products including food, cosmetics, drugs, paper and toothpaste. Because one of the ingredients on the back of her container is titanium dioxide, which if you dont know, causes cancer, Morgan said. If you take a quick stroll through the aisles of a grocery store or drugstore, you'll find there's an organic option for just about everything these days, including produce, deodorant, and even tampons. It also appears insunscreen and cosmetics, two categories in which the ingredient is also generally considered safe. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. But Im a stay at home mom with no income. Study after study has flagged concerns about the potential damaging effects of titanium dioxide on organs like the liver and kidney. Some. But this amount varies by product. Walmart customers love these super plus organic cotton tampons from Lola so much, they have given them an impressive 4.3-star rating. Still, peoples stories on social media have left many shaken. "There are no published studies on titanium dioxide causing excessive bleeding, infertility or cancer, so it is hard to say if it is dangerous to women's health or not," Dr. Gohar says. A company spokesperson told theSkimm that the ingredient represents much less than 0.1% of all ingredients used in a [P&G] tampon. And said its been used safely for years. In the video, which has received nearly eight million views and 1.5 million likes at the time of publication, user Rachel Morgan holds up a box of 100% organic cotton core tampons from the brand L., owned by Proctor & Gamble, and tells user to stop what theyre doing and check the ingredients on the back of the box. Read reviews and buy Tampax Pure Cotton Tampons - Super - 24ct at Target. The site is secure. Sign up for the Daily Skimm email newsletter. It is important to note that studies in rats, mice and other animals are not directly applicable to humans. 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. Theres been a lot of alarmist concern, she said. Lets look at the concerns around todays feminine hygiene products, specifically national brand tampons and pads. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved, Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. "When properly tested, regular tampons are safe and free of harmful chemicals. fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs); 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. ', Consuming it orally appears to be a different story. For example, when the substance is applied via sunscreen, sufficient data have found titanium dioxide to be "generally recognized as safe and effective," per the FDA. "While most cosmetic products will disclose whether or not titanium dioxide is an ingredientsome states require itit is important to note that the FDA does not currently require brands to disclose this information.". "These tampons are fantastic," wrote one customer. Mostly organic produce. Shoppers love that they are made from responsibly sourced, organic cotton and that their applicator is made from 92% of plant-based materials. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Find him on [email protected]. "Organic tampons are available as an alternative for women who prefer to go this route," said Dr. Ross. A recent TikTok video went viral with the false claim that the titanium dioxide used in L. brand organic tampons is responsible for miscarriages, cancer and a host of other medical problems. Theres also period underwear. WVE envisions a world free from the impacts of toxic chemicals, one where our planet and communities are thriving, one where our gender, race, sexuality, zip code, income level or job does not determine our health outcomes. Experts that spoke to Gizmodo also insisted that there is no evidence that titanium dioxide in tampons, other topical products (sunscreen), and food is unsafe to humans as it currently used. https://www.ccohs.ca/headlines/text186.html, [2] EFSA (2021) Titanium dioxide: E171 no longer considered safe when used as a food additive. [My container] doesnt say it, but its getting thrown out regardless, because how can I consciously just be like, Oh sure, yeah, I trust you. So yeah, go check your fucking box and if you had any adverse symptoms like her, call a fucking lawyer.. I wanted to do more research before just jumping and following this narrative blindly. Media inquiries? The suit claims the substance is unfit for human consumption, but the toxicologist stated that the lawsuit is based on gross misinterpretations of the available data to claim a human cancer risk. Then you can make your own decision. "They're easy to use, easily concealable, and give me ease of mind that I'm doing something good for the environment. That environment includes where you live, work, play, and pray. With 8 million views, this instance shows the impact of a TikTokdespite the actual evidence to the contrary. Andrea Chisolm, MD, is a board-certified OB/GYN who has taught at both Tufts University School of Medicine and Harvard Medical School. Free standard shipping with $35 orders. Get it daily. A recent TikTok video went viral with the false claim that the titanium dioxide used in L. brand organic tampons is responsible for miscarriages, cancer and a host of other medical problems.. The FDA has found that regulated amounts of titanium dioxide are considered safe. T. 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. That said, with all the scientific evidence accumulating in other areas, consumers should be more aware of titanium dioxide's potential effect on reproductive health, Dr. Gohar says. Protective wrap stands up to the roughest of travel and yet is easily unwrapped so no time is wasted. But titanium dioxides potential health effects depend on how it's used. Unbelievable. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Comes with twelve different courses comprised of a huge number of lessons, and each one will help you learn more about Python itself, and can be accessed when you want and as often as you want forever, making it ideal for learning a new skill. Dr. Katrine Wallace, an epidemiologist and adjunct assistant professor at University of Illinois at Chicago, is another debunker of TikTok misinformation and has more than 267,000 followers on the platform. What is great is that we are reading the ingredients on these products and asking important questions about their safety. This will help reduce the spread of bacteria. L. Organic Cotton Ultra Thin Pads for Women, Regular Absorbency, Free from Chlorine Bleaching Pesticides Fragrances Or Dyes, 84 Count. 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. 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. I am not into social media. However, titanium dioxide isn't just a popular ingredient in food. "Titanium dioxide is a naturally occurring substance that is often used in food and other topical products to create a whiter and brighter look," Dr. Gohar says. How Bad Is It Really to Use Baby Powder 'Down There?'. Thats huge, considering the FDA doesnt require companies to list the individual ingredients in tampons and pads since theyre considered medical devices. 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 . The tampons come in both regular and super sizes, and customers say a regular size is a great option for light flow days. I wouldn't raise the alarm. Research has shown that fabrics with titanium dioxide that are washed repeatedly release very little of the mineral, she said. Some experts say that there's no need to lose sleep over having titanium dioxide in tampons. If that is the case, you can avoid glyphosate by using alternative feminine hygiene products. Read our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions. If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, please see the Ive written multiple times in this columnabout how an observed association between two events or variables does not necessarily mean that one caused the other. And remember, this is inhaled TiO2 atveryhigh levels much higher than the small amount of TiO2 in the strings of tampons. 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. What Are the Symptoms of Having Your Period? "Again, the data is inconclusive on whether these products are really linked to excessive bleeding, cancer and infertility, so it's not right or wrong to continue using these products based on currently available information," Dr. Gohar says. Aka a common coloring agent. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. I will share what I know about titanium dioxide in tampons! Is this just a big conspiracy someone is trying to push? "Very pleased with these," wrote one reviewer. And the importance of questioning what were consuming on the daily. Its used in sunscreen, all kinds of cosmetics, medications, and youll find it in food. I used this exact brand. . "Organic tampon companies make claims that the organic tampons are composed of 100% organic cotton, free of chemicals, rayon and synthetics, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, not bleached with chlorine, dioxin free, and free of additive chemicals that may be harmful to a women's health," said Sherry A. Ross, MD, an ob-gyn, author of she-ology and she-ology. Some country-level occupational health and safety organizations cite a lack of high-quality studies from which they can draw any concrete conclusions about the long-term risks of titanium dioxide exposure. But no matter what your period product preference, you shouldn't be worried about whether it can harm your health. The FDA discourages the use of reusable tampons. And they made that call after food safety officials said it could damage DNA, which could lead to cancer. Missoula, MT 59807, Visit us in Denver Peter Weiss, MD, is a board-certified OB/GYN and expert in women's health. To be blunt, they are worried about the possibility of something happening that has never been demonstrated to happen, Marino said. More: Which supplements are most likely to land you in the ER? I would just be a very educated consumer, and I would be aware of what we're putting in our bodies. The tampons themselves are made from 100% organic cotton and have been produced using sustainable and ethical processes. Cause-and-effect can only be established by rigorous randomized-control, double-blindclinical research trials or meta-analyses of multiple smaller studies, for example. The compound is used safely in many foods and cosmetics, but it's still banned in foods in the UK. But the video is raising important questions: What is titanium dioxide? It became the first state in the nation to do so. And that's a really good thing to drive science [and] safer products. 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 wish I could explain what has happened to you and to the others who have responded to the viral TikToks with similar stories of their own. Understandably, some folks are pretty mad, some are very concerned. The Beach Is My Happy Placeand Here Are 3 Science-Backed Reasons It Should Be Yours, Too. productslearn more about Pro tip: It can also appear as Pigment White 6 and White Pigment in packaging. He reiterated that no such evidence exists. by theorganicbunny on August 3, 2022. While they are not safer to use, there are some benefits to switching to organic tamponsparticularly for environmental reasons. Activated charcoal benefits explained:Does it actually prevent hangovers? New study explores the benefits,harms. I can wear them for as long as necessary and there is no leakage. The FDA has tested and cleared traditionally used tampons for women to use safely and with confidence.". ", Price at time of publication: $14.99 for 32 count. As shown in the viral TikTok video, some organic tampons contain titanium dioxide as a bleaching agent. It's unclear exactly how many brands use TiO2 in their menstrual products. js.src = '//p2a.co/js/embed/widget/advocacywidget.min.js'; Do you need an 'armpit detox?' The FDA has found that regulated amounts of titanium dioxide are considered safe. Rebecca Carhart is a Senior Ecommerce Reviews Writer covering home, fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products. Also Im not looking for attention. As for the potential risks (or lack thereof!) Given the mixed reviews on the substance, it's obvious why some are concerned about consuming it. "Minimal waste and perfect for everyone especially those that are extra sensitive. Hundreds of Walmart shoppers have given the tampons a near-perfect rating, with many raving about how they're absorbent and comfortable. "They're organic, and I love how compact they are! "But while no study has positively linked titanium dioxide exposure to ovarian cancer, miscarriages, or UTIs, we also dont have the science to assure us that this kind of exposure is perfectly safe either."