Products used for menstrual hygiene are in close contact with sensitive skin over a person’s reproductive lifetime. Consumers often seek clarity regarding the components of sanitary pads and their potential effects on health. Understanding the materials and potential chemical exposure is key to making informed choices. This guide details the composition of conventional pads and provides advice for selecting alternatives with a reduced chemical load.
Examining Common Pad Materials and Additives
Conventional disposable sanitary pads are made from a blend of synthetic and treated natural materials for absorbency and leak protection. The top sheet, which touches the skin, is often made of synthetic non-woven plastics like polyethylene or polypropylene. A plastic back sheet, usually polyethylene, forms the moisture barrier to prevent leaks.
The absorbent core frequently contains wood pulp or rayon, which are often bleached white. Traditional chlorine bleaching can create trace amounts of dioxins, which are toxic environmental pollutants. Many manufacturers now use Elemental Chlorine-Free (ECF) or Totally Chlorine-Free (TCF) processes, with TCF using oxygen or hydrogen peroxide instead of chlorine compounds.
Chemical additives are incorporated for specific functions, such as fragrances, dyes, and adhesives. Fragrances are added to mask odors but are known skin irritants, and dyes can trigger allergic reactions. Super Absorbent Polymers (SAPs), typically sodium polyacrylate, absorb fluid and turn it into a gel. While regulatory bodies consider SAPs safe because they do not directly contact the skin, their manufacturing involves chemicals like acrylic acid, which raises consumer concern.
Understanding Potential Health Reactions
The materials and additives in sanitary pads can lead to localized adverse health outcomes, primarily affecting the vulvar skin. The most frequent reaction is contact dermatitis, an inflammatory skin condition resulting from contact with an irritant or allergen. This irritation is often caused by fragrances, dyes, or the adhesives used in the pad.
Symptoms of contact dermatitis include vulvar irritation, redness, and itching. Beyond chemical sensitivity, the non-breathable nature of plastic-based pads traps heat and moisture. This warm, damp environment can promote the growth of bacteria and fungi, leading to infections or exacerbating existing irritation.
Concerns exist regarding potential systemic effects from chemicals in synthetic components. Some synthetic plastics and plasticizers, such as phthalates and bisphenols (BPA), are known to mimic hormones and are classified as endocrine-disrupting chemicals. The genital skin is considered highly absorbent, and long-term exposure to these substances is a source of consumer concern, although data on the absorption rate remains limited. It is worth noting that the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is extremely low when using sanitary pads.
Identifying and Selecting Safer Menstrual Pads
To select a safer menstrual pad, focus on minimizing exposure to known irritants and chemical contaminants. Prioritizing products made with 100% organic cotton is an effective starting point. Organic cotton is grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers, eliminating the risk of pesticide residues in the final product.
The processing method is also a significant factor, making Totally Chlorine-Free (TCF) pads a preferred choice. TCF pads use safer alternatives for whitening, such as oxygen or hydrogen peroxide, ensuring no trace amounts of dioxins are created. Consumers should look for pads labeled as unscented or fragrance-free, as removing these additives reduces the likelihood of allergic reactions and skin irritation.
Label transparency and third-party certifications verify a product’s safety claims. The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification assures that the cotton is organic and that the manufacturing process avoids harmful chemicals. Another certification is OEKO-TEX Standard 100, which confirms that every component has been tested for harmful substances and found safe for human contact.
Reusable cloth pads made from natural fibers like organic cotton or bamboo are another low-chemical option. These must be washed and dried correctly to prevent bacterial or fungal growth. Maintaining proper hygiene is a fundamental safety measure, including changing pads every four to six hours to reduce the buildup of moisture and bacteria.