This is a good thing.

Ten years ago in 2013, a steady decline in the use of cardboard applicator tampons began.

Markedly, plastic applicator tampons were introduced and within two years, by 2015, approximately 88% of tampons sold and used were plastic applicator tampons. This popularity among people who experienced periods came from the feeling that they had more control over where the tampon goes, ease of insertion, and general comfort. 

This was before the rise in awareness of BPA and PFAS found in period care products. This awareness enlivened the determination to make more informed choices regarding period care products, especially tampons. 

Did you know that tampons are essentially classified as medical devices?

In fact,  any object that must be inserted into the body, like tampons, tends to pose a much higher risk of the transferring of unwanted compounds. We must approach this topic informed and with care.

According to Overexposed:

“The toxins contained in plastics have different effects on men and women, both in the workplace and in everyday life. This is partly due to biology – the differences in body size and the proportion of fatty tissue – but it is also due to the gender roles that women find themselves filling. Women’s bodies contain more fat than men’s and therefore accumulate more oil-soluble chemicals such as phthalate plasticizers. The female body is especially sensitive to toxins during life phases such as puberty, pregnancy, lactation, and menopause.”

Articles like these reminded us of the long-term repercussions of uninformed decisions. 

 

Now that many of us live in a constant state of awareness of the need for clean and eco-friendly decisions, it brings us to also consider the tampons we put into our bodies.

Plastic applicators can now be BPA-Free, for those who prefer it. And for those who have even more plastic-related reservations, cardboard, and digital tampons can be the best bet. 

Let’s not forget the availability of organic pads, reusable cups, disks, and period underwear. 

 

When it comes to cardboard applicator tampons, many believe that it’s easier to carry around. They also tend to be 100% biodegradable, which can reduce your carbon footprint and give a high five to the planet. Many mid-range hotels like the Mariott also defer to cardboard applicator tampons in their public-use bathrooms for temporary residents. The reason? Sustainability.

And that’s where we stand.

If sustainability or a plastic-free lifestyle happens to be one of your goals or is currently tacked to your mood board, it may be worth the shot and let your body decide.

In the end, it is your power to determine the best period care suited to you.

 

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