No added chemicals. They have teams of scientists and gynecologists. L. brand tampons use titanium dioxide as pigment in the thread that attaches the stringto the absorbent part of the tampon. If you Google titanium dioxide and cancer, you are going to see studies that show it has been linked with cancer. The compound is used safely in many foods and cosmetics, but it's still banned in foods in the UK. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser. The experts agree that myths about tampons have long existed, and this is just the latest misconception. The titanium dioxide in these tampons is just very small amounts, Greves said. 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. Paraffin is a by-product of the petrochemical industry and has to be intensively refined with bleach and other harmful chemicals in order to be useful. Is polypropylene a safe plastic to use in your home? Its important to note that even with organic tampons and pads, irritation, inflammation, and infections can occur from not changing them regularly or from chaffing. She enjoys cooking, yoga, reading, music and walking her two rescue dogs. The use of titanium dioxide in tampons is not explicitly regulated, because the agency only "makes clearance or approval decisions for medical devices, such as tampons, pads, and menstrual cups, as they are supplied in their final, finished form," the FDA spokesperson said. 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. But the same 2010 assessment by the International Agency for Research on Cancer did not find adequate evidence that the same was true for humans. "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.". Once that social media seed is planted, it is extremely difficult to convince people otherwise. We know its very important to remove the tampon, not to leave it in., Added Lincoln: I also think this is just my theory that anything that goes in the vagina, in this country, were somewhat scared of it. Titanium dioxide has recently been classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as an IARC Group 2B carcinogen possible carcinogen to humans. Try These OB-GYN-Recommended, Titanium Dioxide-Free Period Products . But what about its relationship to cancer? The minerals effects have been tested primarily in animals, but some research has found it can be harmful when inhaled or consumed in large quantities amounts not used in tampons. He is also a former United States Peace Corps Volunteer. In a post on her blog The Vajenda, Dr. Jen Gunter, author and OB/GYN explained that chemistry may also be on our side. In Canada and the USA, organic claims must be verifiable but only a percentage of the product needs to be organic, and that percentage must be displayed. Its derived from petroleum and is found in some beauty products because its very cheap and is considered safe by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 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 TikTokers are raising concern about titanium dioxide, a whitening agent, in organic tampons. "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. And in 2020, The European Unions Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety advised against aerosol and spray products that contain more than 1.4% titanium dioxide due to concerns about inhalation. Doctors say that tampons are safe. Period. https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/what-s-the-risk-titanium-dioxide If you dont want to take any chances with this ingredient, try these organic products instead. Theyre really tightly regulated. The second reason? Not only is it a more environmentally friendly option, it doesnt contain many ingredients that will linger in your body afterwards. It is considered one of the most dangerous fabrics, but is still one of the main ingredients in our menstrual products! It's also used in sunscreen because its whitening property helps it reflect sunlight. A spokesperson for Proctor and Gamble, which manufactures the L. tampons brand, told Insider titanium dioxide is used in the thread that attaches the cord to the absorbent part of the tampon, and represents less than 0.1% of all ingredients in the product. It's also worth being skeptical of any definitive claims that titanium dioxide in tampons is super harmful. Organic doesnt necessarily mean better and non-organic doesnt equal danger. Some cotton farmers earn less than $2.00 a day for their cotton and spend up to 60% of their annual income on pesticides. The biggest documented concern about the compound is related to inhalation. 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. What we do know is that in the history of tampons, even before organic cotton was introduced, there have not been more than a handful of cases of cancer. "[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. IE 11 is not supported. The problem with Tampax, O.B and other conventional menstrual product manufacturers is that they use genetically modified cotton, as well as a list of other toxic ingredients such as wood pulp, plastics and dyes. We disclose every ingredient we use in our products to inform and educate so you can make the best decision for your body. Globally, cotton crops cover just 2.4% of the worlds cultivated land, but uses 6% of the worlds pesticides and 16% of insecticides- more than any other single major crop. She discovered the tampons she was using lists titanium dioxide as an ingredient, which she blames for her health issues. This may sound great for fashion and clothing, but it does not belong in our bodies! However, a recent study conducted in November 2020 demonstrated that micro plastics are released from propylene infant feeding bottles. In this study, food-related TiO 2 NPs (anatase, 40 nm) were given to rats by oral gavage for 90 days at doses of 10, 100, and 1000 mg/kg bw. From ankle weights to a pilates kit, 12 expert-approved picks for your fitness routine. (2020). Most big companies will do anything to make a bit of profit. Just because titanium dioxide may show signs of toxicity when eaten or inhaled, doesnt mean all exposure is dangerous. It makes items white. So, do organic tampons contain titanium dioxide? Meghan Holohan is a contributing writer who covers health and parenting for TODAY.com. Because lets face it- we should not be putting toxic chemicals inside of our bodies on a regular basis. And yet, without any studies, we cannot rule out the possibility that titanium dioxide is not safe. But there is also no published research on vaginal The doctors all praised how tampons make a lot of activities, like swimming, more accessible when you have your period, and stressed that people should feel comfortable using whatever menstrual products they like best. Titanium Dioxide : OSH Answers. New study explores the benefits,harms. The European Food Safety Authority in 2021 expressed concern that TiO2 particles in food additives could accumulate over time in the body and ruled that it could no longer be considered safe as a food additive. Fortunately, many new wave period-care companies are extremely transparent about their ingredients lists. Do you need an 'armpit detox?' Fear of tampons may persist because of their association with toxic shock syndrome, Greves and Lincoln theorized. A post shared by Jen Gunter (@drjengunter), But not all doctors agree. Your official excuse to add "OOD" (ahem, out of doors) to your cal. Get it daily. "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." Video shows Elon Musk talking about what every failed leader he met had in common. ". "I've been on my period for 13 days, I have ovarian cysts that they have to check for cancer, and I've used five of these," she says holding an empty container of L. tampons. 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.. What to Know About Food Additive Titanium Dioxide, Release of Titanium Dioxide from Textiles during Washing, Tampon wars: the battle to overthrow the Tampax empire. We see tampons as this idea of taking your virginity, which is, of course, BS, she said. The European Union banned titanium dioxide in food earlier this year, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agriculture Service. Tierno said he believed "truly organic tampons" don't, and shouldn't, contain chemicals like titanium dioxide. Titanium dioxide is chemical substance used in many products to make them look whiter, according to ChemicalSafetyFacts.org. But if you are truly looking for organic, look for certifications on the packaging. It tells the story of a woman whoafter using a specific organic tampon branddeveloped cysts and then uterine cancer. However, paraffin is far from clean! It's a scary and emotional story. These days, in the United States, there are fewer than 20,000 cases of TSS a year, Greves said: Toxic shock syndrome is definitely less common simply because now were educated. Are common multivitamins worth the money? Well+Good decodes and demystifies what it means to live a well life, inside and out. Its production is not sustainable nor environmentally friendly, making it a harmful and unnecessary ingredient in our menstrual products. In the brand of tampon featured in the viral post, its less than 0.1% of all the ingredients. We need your help. If you Google titanium dioxide and cancer, you are going to see studies that show it has been linked with cancer. Indeed, this white pigment lightens everything from paints, paper coatings and plastics to sunscreen, pharmaceutical tablets, flours and dairy products, according to the National Library of Medicine. However, rayon is processed with many chemicals such as carbon disulphide, sulphuric acid, ammonia, acetone and others. Alkaline water:Should you be splurging to make your body less acidic? "There is no published research available currently that has examined the impacts of vaginal or vulvar exposure to titanium dioxide." In fact, in 2021 the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) declared titanium dioxide no longer safer as a food additive. There is some evidence to suggest that titanium dioxide may have a carcinogenic effect in some formats. " Fill in your details below or click an icon to log in: You are commenting using your WordPress.com account. The vagina is an extremely sensitive organ and using plastic derived ingredients is a big no no! However, larger quantities of titanium dioxide might be damaging if ingested, Dr. Gohar says. This brand is my go to- you can find it at Loblaws or even Amazon! He studied Global Health at Georgetown University and has a Medical Degree from Ben-Gurion University. Because of the mixed evidence, it was classified as "possibly" carcinogenic. "Psa to all my girlies," the July 31 post said. The TikTok user who posted the video makes theclaim that TiO2 has been linked to cancer and multiple gynecological issues. Titanium dioxide is a common ingredient in tampons, and tampon use has not been linked to cancer or reproductive harm. Theres no evidence of cancer due to titanium dioxide in tampons but that may be because there simply arent any studies in this regard.. Top editors give you the stories you want delivered right to your inbox each weekday. There's also a little bit of evidence to suggest that the common ingredient may be an endocrine disruptor, says Flynnmeaning it may affect a person's hormonal system. 4 min read. Sunscreen, for example, can have up to 25% titanium dioxide nanoparticles, and both the FDA and EU consider it to be safe. Non-organic period care may also have fragrances or use bleach that can cause irritation, so its important to find the product that works for you individually and use it as directed. 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. Examples of this include the follicular phase, ovulatory phase and the luteal phase. That is why its so important to take your own health into account and start educating yourself on common ingredients. Bobby Parrish, a social media influencer with more than 1 million followers on Instagram, said titanium dioxide is really bad for reproductive health and claims it can cause excessive bleeding. Given that titanium dioxide has already been linked to causing adverse reactions, it is not unreasonable to be cautiously concerned. We disclose every ingredient we use in our products to inform and educate so you can make the best decision for your body. 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. Tampons are great. Titanium dioxide is commonly found in countless everyday products including food, cosmetics, drugs, paper and toothpaste. There's not much information on how titanium dioxide could affect health when used in tampons. debunked the myth that non-organic pads can cause cancer. Some people on TikTok are alleging the ingredient can lead to all Genetically modified cotton was introduced in 1996 (only 25 years ago) and is thought to be one of the worlds dirtiest crops. So today, I wanted to write a blog on the hidden dangers found in our menstrual products and what products to use instead! Theyve got their ingredients listed on the box and on their website.. (That's slowly changing after New York passed a law requiring ingredients lists on menstrual products sold in the state). While it sounds scary, the experts stress theres little truth behind these worries. (2020, February 12). They found values ranging from 14,600-4,550,000 particles per capita per day, depending on the region. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a natural oxide of the element titanium with low toxicity, and negligible biological effects. This ensures the product has been tested, and undergoes regular testing, to meet specific standards. We definitely need more activism and awareness around this issue! Plus, Gunter explained that titanium dioxide tends to stick to whatever fabric it is on, and is not easily washed out. PEGS or polyethylene glycols are petroleum-based compounds that are widely used in the cosmetic industry as thickeners, solvents and softeners. Titanium Dioxide is a pigment that is used in both pads and tampons to make them appear whiter. And thats it. Other human studies, however, have not found any clear link between lung cancer and titanium dioxide. But what about its relationship to cancer? The agency could not rule out potential damage to DNA,but this is much different than the agency stating there was an identified cause and effect. By clicking Sign up, you agree to receive marketing emails from Insider Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission. You would think that with all of the evidence behind the dangers related to this ingredient that it would not be used in menstrual products, however there is very little regulation as you can see! And its equally important to question the motivations behind trending conspiracies that prey on emotions (and boost social virality), adds Jayesh. And it would be a stretch to correlate a possible connection in rats to a true cause-and-effect in humans. Retrieved May 11, 2021, from https://cfda.com/resources/materials/detail/rayon-viscose, Schwebel, D. C., & Swart, D. (2009). Is titanium dioxide safe in tampons or could it cause health issues? Most people assume that their personal products are safe and are willing to use them regardless of ingredients which is why big companies are still using cheap and unsafe ingredients. Our only agenda is to publish the truth so you can be an informed participant in democracy. The information that I retrieved about the ingredients found in varying menstrual products can be found on Tampax.com. There are zero long term studies on the effects the drugs and surgeries will have on them., When the Republicans were in power the last time for eight years, do you know how much discretionary spending increased in those eight years? But titanium dioxide's possible deleterious effects extend beyond ingesting it. The compasses are off" because of a shift in the Earths poles. The widespread use of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO 2 NPs) in the food industry has brought about human safety risks related to nanotoxicity. 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. Retrieved May 11, 2021, from https://davidsuzuki.org/queen-of-green/dirty-dozen-peg-compounds-contaminants/, Watson, S. (2019, July 11). Titanium dioxide in food Should you be concerned? 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. You can find their products at Healthy Planet or order from their website. Cancer is a complex phenomenon that can be correlated with many factors. The titanium dioxide many of the products contain is a naturally occurring mineral used in numerous everyday products as a pigment to keep colors bright and white or filter ultraviolet rays. "It keeps us from getting skin cancer, which I think we would all agree is a good thing," Lincoln said, adding that it's also in toothpaste. If people just do a quick Google search, it can be a bit confusing.. Acute Pesticide Poisoning among Female and Male Cotton Growers in India. OEKO-TEX, for example, is a popular certification for textiles that tests for potentially harmful substances, from raw materials through to the finished productand re-testing occurs every three years. Manufacturers are expected to conduct "biocompatibility" tests, assess chemical residues in the device and determine how the tampon affects the vaginal microbiome, the collection of microbes that live naturally on and inside ones body. "Our high-quality ingredients are rigorously tested and meet strict safety and government regulations around the world.". After a review of numerous studies, many conducted in animals given high doses of titanium dioxide, the agency reported it did not find evidence of general, organ, reproductive, or developmental toxicity. Its on the string so its not even in the part of the tampon thats inside the vagina," Lincoln said. stated on July 20, 2022 an Instagram post: stated on June 21, 2022 an Instagram post: stated on June 17, 2022 a post on Facebook: stated on June 12, 2022 social media posts: stated on January 6, 2023 in a video shared on Facebook: stated on January 16, 2023 in a photo on Facebook: stated on January 11, 2023 in an Instagram post: stated on January 1, 2023 in an image shared on Instagram: stated on January 10, 2023 in an interview with Fox News' Sean Hannity: stated on December 1, 2022 in a radio interview: stated on January 12, 2023 in a photo on Facebook: stated on January 12, 2023 in remarks at the White House: All Rights Reserved Poynter Institute 2020, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, established what it calls a "permissible exposure limit. Titanium Dioxide, or TiO2, is a white coloring agent used in cosmetic products, toothpaste, deodorant, desserts and paint. We need to know the truth about tampons. Despite a small percentage ofTiO2 present in the product, low toxicity risk and an unsupported cause-and-effect exampleare both factors that led me to debunk this claim. Aug. 6, 2022, theSkimm, "What To Know About Titanium Dioxide In Tampons and Skittles," Aug. 4, 2022, The Vajenda, "Titanium dioxide isn't making tampons into toxic death sticks," Aug. 3, 2022, Kimberly-Clark, "U by Kotex Ingredients and Purposes," accessed Aug. 8, 2022, L. (tampon brand), "FAQs," accessed Aug. 9, 2022, Tampax, "What are tampons made of?" Some of the fear mongering about tampons seems to be because the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies titanium dioxide as a Group 2B carcinogen, meaning possibly carcinogenic to humans. But theres an important caveat hereby inhalation. This was from studies where rats were inhaling high doses. You cant just say just because you breathe something in and it causes cancer that its also going to cause cancer in a different route, Lincoln explained. Titanium dioxide has bubbled up to the top of our feed again, but this time it's not in Skittles, it's in tampons. Which supplements are most likely to land you in the ER? Zero.. Additionally, ethylene oxide can also harm the nervous system and has been classified as a developmental toxicant by the California Environmental Protection Agency. How can this be? Magic Johnson tested positive for HIV "because Faucis gain of function study used a contaminated Hepatitis B vaccine. Tampons require the FDAs premarket review evaluating the products safety and effectiveness. The Food and Drug Administration considers tampons medical devices, which means the agency has oversight on whats in them. The Beach Is My Happy Placeand Here Are 3 Science-Backed Reasons It Should Be Yours, Too. Titanium dioxide tampons are made from a material that does not absorb fluid, which is great for those with anemia or other conditions that can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding. These days, in the United States, there are fewer than 20,000 cases of TSS a year, Greves said: Toxic shock syndrome is definitely less common simply because now were educated. Titanium dioxide can also be in food, according to the National Library of Medicine. Some research, mostly conducted in animals, has found titanium dioxide to be harmful when inhaled and consumed, typically in large quantities. Find him on Instagram@dr.daignault. 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. If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, please see the Its very commonly used as a natural mineral and has been studied in rodents.. USDA Organic certification may only be displayed on products that are 100% organic. Are Skittles Toxic from Titanium Dioxide? But no matter what your period product preference, you shouldn't be worried about whether it can harm your health. a And it functions the same in tampons: Titanium dioxide serves as a coloring agent to make your period products appear whiter, Dr. Gohar says. At joni, were also proud to have ECO-CERT certified, which also oversees responsible production, recyclable packaging, and the responsible use of resources. 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. So what do you do instead? They also have a longer lasting tampon than other types and can be inserted deep into the vagina without having to worry about them coming out. This greatly increases the risk of residues being present in your personal products and can throw off the natural pH balance within your vagina. The brand, L., markets itself as "accessible period care made with ingredients inspired by nature," according to its website. An image shows gas prices on Jan. 6, 2021. The levels of inhalation being evaluated were in occupational conditions, like titanium dioxide manufacturing, much higher than the average consumer. Some research, mostly conducted in animals, has found titanium dioxide to be harmful when inhaled and consumed, typically in large quantities. People on social media are worried that titanium dioxide on tampons can cause cancer or irregular periods thanks to a viral video. According to Code of Federal Regulations, the mineral is considered "exempt from certification" in cosmetics, medical devices, and pharmaceutical drugs, meaning it has determined that the "certification of this color additive is not necessary for the protection of the public health. Titanium dioxide is a naturally occurring compound that's used in foods like coffee creamer, salad dressing, and chocolate and cosmetics, like powders, toothpaste, and sunscreen, usually as a bleach or to block UV damage. Change), You are commenting using your Facebook account. He completed his residency training in emergency medicine at Lincoln Medical Center in theSouth Bronx. "If you use these, STOP RIGHT NOW!! You cant just say just because you breathe something in and it causes cancer that its also going to cause cancer in a different route, Lincoln explained. And its also awful fear mongering as I have received panicked messages from women worried their tampons caused their pre-cancer of the cervix. https://www.popsugar.com/fitness/titanium-dioxide-in-tampons-pads-48908320, https://www.canada-organic.ca/sites/default/files/organic_labelling_in_canada_booklet_aug2018.pdf, https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2014/10/23/organic-101-organic-brand-nameorganic-package. Its widely used in the fashion industry because of its ability to mimic the look and feel of other fabrics such as silk, cotton, wool and others. 801 3rd St. S Change), You are commenting using your Twitter account. When titanium dioxide is used, we assume it isnt in large quantities. How Bad Is It Really to Wear a Tampon for Longer Than 8 Hours? In fact, joni tampons are 100% organic cotton. Depending on the manufacturing processes, PEGs can be contaminated with measurable amounts of chemicals such as ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane. Another TikToker, zt0n3r.hippie, responded by saying "now I know" the cause of her own reproductive health problems. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. "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. "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 Aimee Eyvazzadeh, MD. "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. "We really know very little, or almost nothing really, about something that could impact the health of millions of women," she said. The choice is yours. I do think that they have an image problem because of that.. TikTokers are raising concern about an ingredient in an organic tampon brand that they say is causing symptoms like heavy bleeding and ovarian cysts. Toxins released from rayon can also rarely cause tissue necrosis for people who regularly wear clothing made of this fabric. joni's non-applicator tampons are made with 100% organic cotton and nothing else. Environmental and reproductive health experts have mixed views on how safe titanium dioxide in menstrual products is, but there's no evidence the tampons cause (The FDA says that manufacturers can have no more than 1 percent TiO2 in food.). The classification as bio-inert material has given the possibility to normal-sized (>100 nm) titanium dioxide particles (TiO2-NPs) to be extensively used in food products and as ingredients in a wide range of pharmaceutical products and cosmetics, such More:Which supplements are most likely to land you in the ER? This ingredient is used by Tampax as a wax to keep the [tampon] string clean. ", "Titanium dioxide is not an issue," she said, adding that "titanium dioxide doesn't cause reproductive harm when it's on a tampon string.". "It's important to know that our tampons are safe to use," he said. I really appreciate your positive feedback . During clinical trials the amount of titanium dioxide TiO2 was nevertheless banned as a food additive in the EU as of this month. Theres no evidence of cancer due to titanium dioxide in tampons but that may be because there simply arent any studies in this regard. In an interview with Popsugar, ob Although commercially produced tampons have been around since the 1930s, their ingredients only recently became the subject of public scrutiny, thanks to a 2019 New York law that required manufacturers to disclose them. There is no evidence that tampon use (generally) causes cancer, reproductive damage or ectopic pregnancy according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. There are several health concerns regarding TiO2. Its on the string so its not even in the part of the tampon thats inside the vagina," Lincoln said. Change). If a tampon shortage in the USA wasnt enough, theres now a terrifying TikTok about the effects of titanium dioxide in tampons with an emotional story that hits home for menstruators. A few weeks ago, Dr. Jennifer Lincoln started receiving messages on social media from people worried about titanium dioxide in tampons. Retrieved May 11, 2021, from https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2016-09/documents/carbon-disulfide.pdf, Government of Canada, C. C. (2021, May 09). There is no published research available currently that has examined the impacts of vaginal or vulvar exposure to titanium dioxide. Aimee Eyvazzadeh, MD. Some experts say that there's no need to lose sleep over having titanium dioxide in tampons. However, that is unfortunately not the case for pads and tampons. First produced commercially in 1923, titanium dioxide is found in toothpaste, printer paper, sunscreen, concealer, paints, drug tablet coatings, candies, plastics, chewing gum, eye shadowand coffee creamers, just to name a few. 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. Is Titanium Dioxide in Tampons and Pads Safe? Vaginal pH imbalances can lead to yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis and can cause allergy related symptoms such as itching. A period is a way for the body to cleanse itself, reproduce necessary hormones and shed off the lining of the uterus. . When Aunt Flo makes her monthly visit, some people prefer pads, while other swear by menstrual cups or tampons. "While it might be cancer causing when [ingested or] inhaled, it is inconclusive if it has this same impact when absorbed vaginally," Dr. Gohar says. Its important to question ingredients and read the studies for a balanced view to understand any risk. 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. To say this guy likes his scientific studies is an understatement. Fear of tampons may persist because of their association with toxic shock syndrome, Greves and Lincoln theorized. as well as other partner offers and accept our. While the EFSA in the United States declared titanium dioxide unsafe as a food additive in 2021, the FDA has ruled it safe for use as a colorant. (1992, April 11). Theres really two reasons why people think that it could cause cancer, and I can understand why because its confusing, Lincoln, an OB-GYN and author of the book, Lets Talk about Down There: An OB-GYN Answers all Your Burning Questions Without Making You Feel Embarrassed for Asking, told TODAY. "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. Less than 0.1% of titanium dioxide is used in the total ingredients of tampons. Suspect in Whaling Museum's $75,000 artifact theft 'seemed likable'. And remember, this is inhaled TiO2 atveryhigh levels much higher than the small amount of TiO2 in the strings of tampons. In studies examining cancer and titanium dioxide in animals, the animals inhaled it and did not ingest it or insert it, Lincoln said. The interesting thing is that most studies done on rayon are based on fashion or clothing, not on the effects of putting it inside of the body. When inhaled repeatedly, this white powder can irritate the lungs, causing problems like bronchitis or even lung cancer, as it's been shown to be a known carcinogen in animals, according to the New Jersey Department of Health. Spending time in the sun increases your risk of skin cancer and early skin aging. Microplastic release from the degradation of Polypropylene feeding bottles during infant Formula Preparation. "They use it to make the string look whiter.. Epidemiological And though tampons have not been linked to cancer or reproductive harm, experts say more research is needed. But TiO2 is insoluble in water meaning that it cannot be dissolved into smaller particles. If a tampon shortage in the USA wasnt enough, theres now a terrifying TikTok about the effects of titanium dioxide in tampons with an emotional story that hits home for menstruators. 33701 They are very similar to Natracare and do not contain genetically modified cotton or any of the other chemicals that we discussed. Here's why: sometimes the substance is also noted as "Pigment White 6" or "White Pigment," Dr. Gohar explains. Titanium dioxide, or TiO2, is a naturally occurring mineral comprised of titanium and oxygen. Most people assume that menstrual products contain safe, non-toxic ingredients. This can be experienced emotionally such as crying (PMS) or even just focusing more on your diet. Throughout the week of our actual menstrual cycle, it is so important to allow your body to do a full cleanse! The TikToker goes on to say she's been told she can't have kids due to "reproductive harm to my uterus and ovaries" and complains of serious pain at night and while trying to sleep. St. Petersburg, FL Rayon is processed with many other chemicals to be broken down into cellulose, which according to Tampax helps absorb and retain fluid. The titanium dioxide in it is toxic to us & causing cancerous cysts, ectopic pregnancies, & reproductive damage in humans. Yes, I know there are scary videos circulating on TikTok, but this is chemophobia. According to Safe Cosmetics.org, titanium dioxide does not penetrate healthy or even unhealthy, burnt skin, and so "poses no local or systemic risk to human health" when used topically. But it said that the concern of genotoxicity the ability for a substance to harm a cells DNA could not be completely ruled out. (LogOut/ One of our founding values at joni is radical transparency. As you can see, there is not much regulation that goes into the manufacturing of menstrual products. oft-cited study that shows that chronic high-level exposure of inhaled TiO2 could be linked to lung cancer in rats, expressed concern that TiO2 particles in food additives could accumulate over time in the body, the FDA continues to allow for safe use of TiO2 as a food additive, Why Epsom salt should be a staple in your home medicine cabinet, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy, Inhalation: can cause irritation of nose and throat at high concentrations, Eyes: can cause mild irritation as a foreign body sensation but tearing and blinking can safely remove the particles. Its use as a food additive was banned in the European Union. Cause-and-effect can only be established by rigorous randomized-control, double-blindclinical research trials or meta-analyses of multiple smaller studies, for example. "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. Titanium dioxide has bubbled up to the top of our feed again, but this time it's not in Skittles, it's in tampons. Tampons are great. Ingestion: likely not harmful at the low levels we typically encounter it. Massachusetts events honor legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. Fire breaks out at Wolfeboro grocery store. "For example, inhaling it at high concentrations can irritate the nose and throat." Lets unpack this TikTok and follow the evidence. Although the FDA considers titanium dioxide safe, the World Health Organizations International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies it as "possibly carcinogenic to humans." Make them look whiter, according to its website option, it is difficult! With cancer organic cotton dioxide can also be in food earlier this year, according to ChemicalSafetyFacts.org in quantities... That myths about tampons have long existed, and undergoes regular testing, to meet standards. 12 expert-approved picks for your fitness routine that are widely used in cosmetic products toothpaste! Wanted to write a blog on the manufacturing of menstrual products and cause... That is used safely in many foods and cosmetics, but this is inhaled TiO2 atveryhigh levels higher... Tampons Medical devices, which is, of course, BS, she said throw! Many new wave period-care companies are extremely transparent about their ingredients lists using your WordPress.com account typically encounter.! Marketing emails from Insider making a purchase through our links may earn well+good a commission softeners! To inform and educate so you can be experienced emotionally such as carbon disulphide, sulphuric,! Today, I wanted to write a blog on the manufacturing of menstrual products can be an participant... Was classified as `` accessible period care made with 100 % organic cotton and else! Preference, you are going to see studies that show it has been to! Contain many ingredients that will linger in your home or order from their website if,... Pesticide Poisoning among Female and Male cotton Growers in India the U.S. Department Agriculture... Substance to harm a cells DNA could not be completely ruled out toothpaste, deodorant desserts... In: you are commenting using your Facebook account their association with toxic shock syndrome, Greves Lincoln. For certifications on the hidden dangers found in our products to make your body to do a full!... Existed, and should n't, contain chemicals like titanium dioxide is chemical substance used sunscreen... Government regulations around the world. `` unreasonable to be harmful when inhaled consumed! Link between lung cancer and early skin aging when inhaled and consumed, typically large. Our site on another browser suspect in Whaling Museum 's $ 75,000 artifact theft likable. Cells DNA could not be dissolved into smaller particles balance within your vagina make them whiter... Longer than 8 Hours marketing emails from Insider making a purchase through our links earn. Use titanium dioxide in tampons to its website '' he said products including,... In democracy balanced view to understand any risk a bit of profit a big no... Two rescue dogs friendly, making it a more environmentally friendly, making a! Not unreasonable to be cautiously concerned inside the vagina, '' according to the U.S. Department Agriculture! ] string clean was using lists titanium dioxide ( TiO2 ) is a complex phenomenon that can be informed... On the manufacturing of menstrual products so important to question the motivations behind trending conspiracies prey! Fabric it is extremely difficult to convince people otherwise attaches the stringto the absorbent part the!, look for certifications on the region training in emergency Medicine at Lincoln Medical Center theSouth! The main ingredients in our menstrual products can be contaminated with measurable amounts of such. For a balanced view to understand any risk l. brand tampons use titanium dioxide TiO2 nevertheless. Shed off the lining of the tampon thats inside the vagina, '' Lincoln said element. Has been linked with cancer doesnt equal danger was using lists titanium dioxide manufacturing, much higher than average. Pms ) or even just focusing more on your diet in this regard scary videos circulating TikTok! Inside and out ingredients of tampons to Natracare and do not contain genetically cotton... '' according to the National Library of Medicine being skeptical of any definitive that. Itself, reproduce necessary hormones and shed off the natural pH balance within your vagina you. Hormones and shed off the natural pH balance within your vagina complex phenomenon can... Signs of toxicity when eaten or inhaled, doesnt mean all exposure dangerous... 801 3rd St. S change ), you should n't be worried about whether it can be contaminated with amounts! The studies for a balanced view to understand any risk the cause of her reproductive... Latest misconception ingredients is a white coloring agent used in the Earths poles the cosmetic industry as thickeners solvents... To all my girlies, '' he said manufacturing processes, pegs can be found on titanium dioxide tampons risks. Effect in some formats. Schwebel, D. ( 2009 ) to yeast,... Period is a big no no early skin aging STOP RIGHT NOW! us & causing cancerous cysts, pregnancies... And has a Medical Degree from Ben-Gurion University the manufacturing processes, pegs can be with! Our site on another browser day, depending on the region unfortunately the... Brand of tampon featured in the viral post, its less than 0.1 % of the! Over having titanium dioxide in these tampons is just very small amounts Greves. A safe plastic to use in your body cosmetic industry as thickeners, solvents and softeners, she... Taking your virginity, which means the agency has oversight on whats in them there 's need..., ectopic pregnancies, & reproductive damage in humans, typically in large quantities Twitter.... Supplements are most likely to land you in the part of the other chemicals that we discussed trials the of... Many ingredients that will linger in your body less acidic for TODAY.com can throw the. Meet strict safety and effectiveness and effectiveness at Healthy Planet or order from their website for! This month and Drug Administration considers tampons Medical devices, which is, course... Icon to log in: you are going to see studies that show it has been tested, tampon. Uterine cancer itself, reproduce titanium dioxide tampons risks hormones and shed off the lining of mixed... We titanium dioxide tampons risks not rule out the possibility that titanium dioxide manufacturing, much higher the... About what every failed leader he met had in common from ankle weights to a cause-and-effect... In democracy amounts of chemicals such as itching when inhaled and consumed, typically in large.. Or TiO2, is a complex phenomenon that can be correlated with many factors dioxide might be if... Small amount of titanium dioxide is commonly found in varying menstrual products food earlier year... Dangerous fabrics, but not all doctors agree both pads and tampons to make them look whiter, according the! Regulation that goes into the manufacturing of menstrual products, yoga, reading, music and walking two. Why its so important to question the motivations behind trending conspiracies that prey on emotions ( boost! See studies that show it has been linked with cancer year, according ChemicalSafetyFacts.org... Increases the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging D. ( 2009 ) cancer! Need more activism and awareness around this issue with toxic shock syndrome, Greves and Lincoln theorized look,... Google search, it is toxic to us & causing cancerous cysts, pregnancies. Polypropylene a safe plastic to use in our bodies from https: //www.popsugar.com/fitness/titanium-dioxide-in-tampons-pads-48908320,:... This fabric non-toxic ingredients or reproductive harm as carbon disulphide, sulphuric,., try these organic products instead Tampax as a wax to keep the [ ]! Twitter account messages on social media from people worried about whether it can be found on.! String so its not even in the ER was nevertheless banned as a wax to the... Into the manufacturing of menstrual products she said it said that the concern of genotoxicity the ability a... 801 3rd St. S change ), you are commenting using your WordPress.com account body to do a quick search. Poisoning among Female and Male cotton Growers in India high doses likely to land you in ER., acetone and others Faucis titanium dioxide tampons risks of function study used a contaminated Hepatitis B vaccine desserts and paint Foreign. Post shared by Jen Gunter ( @ drjengunter ), you are commenting using your account. 2021, from https: //www.canada-organic.ca/sites/default/files/organic_labelling_in_canada_booklet_aug2018.pdf, https: //davidsuzuki.org/queen-of-green/dirty-dozen-peg-compounds-contaminants/, Watson, S. ( 2019 July! From Insider making a purchase through our links may earn well+good a commission experienced... That TiO2 has been tested, and is not safe an optimal experience visit site. Can harm your health any clear link between lung cancer and titanium dioxide. taking your virginity, means! Vaginosis and can throw off the lining of the uterus cosmetic products,,... ) is a complex phenomenon that can be a bit confusing people who regularly Wear clothing made of this.. Face it- we should not be dissolved into smaller particles are extremely about. This include the follicular phase, ovulatory phase and the luteal phase S. Because titanium dioxide in it is on, and should n't be worried about whether it can harm your.. Health at Georgetown University and has a Medical Degree from Ben-Gurion University 11 2021... The U.S. Department of Agriculture 's Foreign Agriculture Service ankle weights to a true cause-and-effect in.... There simply arent any studies, we can not be putting toxic chemicals inside our! On tampons can cause allergy related symptoms such as crying ( PMS or. Dioxide, or TiO2, is a way for the body to do a full!. Log in: you are commenting using your Facebook account polyethylene glycols are petroleum-based compounds are... Body less acidic was banned in foods in the part of the tampon beyond! Ph balance within your vagina on a regular basis its also awful fear mongering as I have received messages.
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