Are Synthetic Sanitary Pads, a Silent Health Threat for Women?

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Studies have suggested that some sanitary pads bring its own set of negative effects and problems on health. These varies from itchiness and rashes, to long-term health disorders and serious infections.

It is important to note, that, the product ‘sanitary pad‘ by itself is not the problem, it is the synthetic materials that were used, which often cause these health problems.

Potential Health Problems of Synthetic Sanitary Pads

Synthetic pads‘ often contain harmful chemicals including chlorine and use artificial fragrances with plastic-based fibres, which are not friendly to your skin. Therefore, it was not surprising when we did multiple surveys and more than 50% of the women were found facing side-effects including itchiness and rashes during their periods.

Also, we found out that most women had very little awareness about the materials that were in their pads and its potential side-effects, according to Shashwat Diesh and Aqib Mohammed, Co-founders of Azah, a premium feminine hygiene brand.

In some cases, synthetic pads may likely contain high concentrations of furans and dioxins, which are by-products of a bleaching process and have been associated with cancer and disorders such as endometriosis. Artificial fragrances, that are most often added to these pads in order to neutralise the odour can irritate the skin, thereby causing itchiness and rashes, while also negatively affecting the natural pH level of your skin, according to the duo.

The plastic fibres, that are typically used in the top layer are not always free of BPA, which is a chemical associated to a plethora of illnesses, from fertility disorders to heart diseases. Also, plastic traps heat, and does not allow for much airflow, therefore, increasing the moisture around the vaginal area, and as a result, the chances of bacterial infections.

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Safer Alternatives:

In order to protect yourself against the problems mentioned above, is to go back to the basics, while also adopting organic, natural, and skin-friendly products. Not only are these products safe and better for your health, but, they are also much more eco-friendly and much better for the environment.

Manufacturers and innovators are now working with the above ‘answer statement‘, and are designing pads that are much more safer for your health by making use of organic and natural materials instead of the synthetic ones.

Due to the fact that most of today’s feminine hygiene products contain vicose, rayon, and cellulose wood fluff pulp, not cotton, let alone organic cotton. Viscose and rayon present a potential danger due to their highly absorbent fibers, which can stick to your vaginal wall. Upon removal, the loosened fibers stay behind, thereby, raising your TSS risk.

Luckily, there are safer alternatives. Since the FDA regulates tampon absorbency, all the tampons on the market must meet the absorption guidelines. As per Dr. Philip Tierno, who is a clinical professor of pathology and microbiology at NYU Medical Center, 100% cotton tampons must “consistently test under detectable levels for the TSS toxins.”

Sources:
Timesnownews
Huffpost

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