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16th July 2024
04:15pm BST
The study examined 30 tampons from 14 different popular brands, and found up to 16 different metals present in the products.
Women across the world have voiced their concern online, as metals such as lead and arsenic can be harmful to our health.
We asked the women of Dublin on their opinion on the recent study, and whether or not the findings would influence them to use alternative period products.
For those that weren't aware of the study, they said they would like to do more research on the subject.
One woman noted how eye opening the report was: "It's really scary now, having read all of that and just knowing that those things are out there. And you're using it on a daily basis without even knowing."
Another pointed out how shocking the news was: “It was more just a bit of a shock that they only found out now, that it wasn’t found out when it first was invented.”
Unfortunately, this is all too common when it comes to women's health and period products in general. Until very recently, the absorbency of pads and tampons was tested using saline solution instead of blood.
“I think it’s really important to educate girls about that and not just leave it unknown," another woman said.
For those that weren't aware of the study, they said they would like to do more research on the subject.
“We have metal ions in our body anyway so I would need to know what metals they are.”
Another pointed out how women's health does not get the same attention as men's health. This is especially apparent when it comes to research and testing.
It's understandable that some women would want to change their preferred period products after the findings of toxic metals.
“They need to be more transparent about which brand exactly and what we can use that is less harmful.”
Many of the women said they would definitely be open to switching brands and products, but would like to look into the study in more depth: “I think I’d need to do more research now that it’s more known."
Another said that she usually uses a moon cup, with others saying pads are their preferred product.
