Riley is one brand I'm not worried about amid the current period product scandal

A study by the University of California, Berkeley found that popular tampon brands contained multiple metals including lead, mercury, nickel, copper, arsenic, and iron.

Metals discovered in the analysed tampons included arsenic, lead, mercury, nickel, copper, and iron.

The levels varied depending on where the tampons were sold, but experts have stressed that any level of metals is harmful.

Women are understandably disturbed by the news, but we're not surprised as the trend of women's healthcare being dismissed continues.

Speaking about the results, ob-gyn Banafsheh Bayati told Vogue that this isn't a surprise, but disappointed that it took this long to become public knowledge.

She shared: "The surprising factor is not that there are heavy metals in tampons but that we are only now aware of this fact."

Riley products don't contain toxins, chemicals, or bleach

This is something women should not have to worry about. The products we use during our period are supposed to help us, not make an already difficult time even harder.

Thankfully, there is one Irish brand that puts women's health at the forefront - Riley.

The Cork company creates period products with women in mind. They ensure their pads and tampons contain no bleach, no pesticides, no toxins, no harmful chemicals.

Their customers know what they're putting in their bodies every single month. Riley's ethos is exactly why they're the only period brand I trust, especially at the moment.

Not only does the Riley team put women first, but they're also on a mission to end period plastic too. Their period products are made with 100% certified organic cotton and nothing else.

Speaking out about the controversy, Riley said their "mission is to provide accessible, healthier, and sustainable period care for all those who menstruate".

They also stressed that more research is needed as the study from the University of California, Berkeley is "exploratory".

The Riley team stressed that their manufacturers meet current regulatory standards.

However, they are also committed to consistently testing and evolving based on test results and regulatory changes. 

Knowing there are brands like Riley out there is a sliver of reassurance for women living in a world where their health isn't a priority.

READ MORE:

• Metals and Arsenic found in Tampons: Implications and proactive steps women can take now
• Her Health: Toxic metal discovered in tampons, shocking study reveals
• Her Health: Ten causes of heavy periods and when to see a doctor