As our community becomes collectively more mindful of the potential health risks associated with period products, this is a perfect opportunity to inform ourselves of the most universally effective possible option.
By popular request, we’re going to break down some of the rising questions about the safety of period products.
The concerns with most period products
If you’ve ever done a deep dive into what commercialized period care brands are using, you may have discovered that most of their ingredients include dyes, fiberglass, pesticides, bleach, chemicals, chlorine/dioxin, and fragrances. In some cases, they don’t even disclose their ingredient list! (Yes, unfortunately, that’s legal!). These known and terrifyingly unknown ingredients should never come into contact with our most intimate areas.
The harsh truth is, using chemicals and plastics on such a regular basis has negative impacts that are not even fully documented yet. Currently, an estimated 28,114 tons of period products are wasted each year. That’s 28,114 tons of material that can continue to damage the planet for the next 500-800 years. In addition, around 20,000 disposable pads and tampons are used by the average woman during their entire lifetime. It’s scary to mention that most people today use products that are non-biodegradable!
Titanium Dioxide in Tampons (insert ominous music)
Along with the ingredients we’ve previously listed, there are a few ingredients that we need to be particularly careful of. Most brands incorporate both titanium dioxide as well as the same material wrapped or packed on plastic wrap or bags. These have both been determined to be carcinogenic to the body and are also known to promote unwanted yeast, bacteria, and infections.
So is titanium dioxide safe in tampons? We’d steer clear of it.
Viscose rayon is another highly absorbent material that, conveniently enough, is used as an absorbent core in most tampons. This has the risk of growing bacteria which, in turn, can block the natural rhythm of your body. No, thanks.
Do organic tampons shorten your period?
It’s worthwhile to keep in mind that everyone’s body is uniquely created. So when it comes to period-based conversations, we should never depend on the concept of “one-size-fits-all”. Some conventional tampons have the risk of blocking the flow of blood circulation. Therefore, when making the switch to organic, some women report seeing their periods have shortened, but not all. What Maxim does guarantee is that organic cotton is indeed less harmful to the earth and your cells.
So what can we do?
Embracing organic and eco-friendly materials is one of the best ways to honor the planet and our bodies. By using organic pads, tampons, reusable pads, and reusable period underwear, you can be at a much lower risk of the harmful effects typical period products have.
Why making the switch is worth it
As we begin to seek more ethical and healthier alternatives it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the thought of committing – so we’ve made it easy for you.
Periods do not have to be something to dread at the end of the month. Maxim believes that people with periods should be able to rely on a brand that honors and empowers the monthly journey, making sure that they get a healthier experience.
Maxim is one of the only period lines on the market that is 100% certified organic, and free from dioxin, harmful chemicals, pesticides, and synthetic materials. Consider us one of the most eco-friendly and sustainable brands out there. We’ve been at it for a while and will continue to prioritize sustainability and ethical practices.
The complete line of products contains no harmful ingredients, is fully biodegradable or reusable, and contains only natural ingredients that benefit and do not harm our bodies. We also employ transparent packaging – all our ingredients are listed so we can rest assured and informed.
Maxim lets you customize products to fit your exact needs. From absorption levels to your preferred styles, you can now find a product that resonates and fits your body type – minus the bad stuff.
