One of our founding values at joni is radical transparency. Titanium dioxide might be one of these. Titanium dioxide has recently been classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as an IARC Group 2B carcinogen possible carcinogen to humans. Before I dive into the horrible and unnecessary ingredients in both pads & tampons, I want to talk about why a menstrual period is such an important cycle that happens within the human body. "But not only that, 'such substances may have the potential for causing reproductive damage in humans,'" she continues. "Most tampons list their ingredients on the back of the package," Dr. Gohar says. Her video has 3.6 million views. What to Know About Food Additive Titanium Dioxide," July 26, 2022, Environmental Science & Technology, "Release of Titanium Dioxide from Textiles during Washing," July 2, 2012, The Guardian, "Tampon wars: the battle to overthrow the Tampax empire," Feb. 11, 2020, District of Columbia "So, if titanium dioxide is giving you anxiety that you just can't shake," there are plenty of period care products and trustworthy tampon brands you can try without the chemical, Dr. Gohar says. Titanium dioxide can also be in food, according to the National Library of Medicine. "could no longer be considered safe" as a food additive, ban TiO2 as a food additive earlier this year, classifies tampons and pads as medical devices, are recommended, but not required, to list their ingredients, may cause cancer based on studies done on animals, government sets limits on exposure for workers, not found any clear link between lung cancer, titanium dioxide can cause alterations to the reproductive system, 26 percent of the global population are of reproductive age. She does this by citing another TikTok videoin which that user claimed to have excessive vaginal bleeding, ovarian cystsand uterine damage after using L. brand tampons. Concerns over titanium dioxide, used by many tampon brands to keep the string looking white, spread to Facebook with one user issuing a warning to her followers. It's also used in sunscreen because its whitening property helps it reflect sunlight. Globally, cotton crops cover just 2.4% of the worlds cultivated land, but uses 6% of the worlds pesticides and 16% of insecticides- more than any other single major crop. Journal of Injury and Violence Research,1(1), 3-5. doi:10.5249/jivr.v1i1.1, The Dirty Dozen: PEG Compounds and their contaminants. Its a compound that reflects light particles. (1992, April 11). Vaginal pH imbalances can lead to yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis and can cause allergy related symptoms such as itching. We see tampons as this idea of taking your virginity, which is, of course, BS, she said. Titanium dioxide is commonly found in countless everyday products including food, cosmetics, drugs, paper and toothpaste. Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) occurs when a super-absorbent tampons is inserted for longer than medically recommended, which may lead certain types of bacteria to grow. Keep in mind that products labeled as natural don't mean anything and are a form of greenwashing. "If you feel uncomfortable with the potential risks associated with titanium dioxide, look for products that dont include titanium dioxide on the ingredients list," says Flynn. We need to know the truth about tampons. One of our founding values at joni is radical transparency. As you can see, there is not much regulation that goes into the manufacturing of menstrual products. Not all regulatory agencies agree: The Canada Health Department, for example, like the FDA, found titanium dioxide to be a safe food additive. What is Titanium Dioxide (and should you be worried)? It is considered one of the most dangerous fabrics, but is still one of the main ingredients in our menstrual products! Is Titanium Dioxide Safe in Tampons? And its also awful fear mongering as I have received panicked messages from women worried their tampons caused their pre-cancer of the cervix. When inhaled repeatedly, this white powder can irritate the lungs, causing problems like bronchitis or even lung cancer, as it's been shown to be a known carcinogen in animals, according to the New Jersey Department of Health. "To date, there is no published research that has researched the impacts of vaginal or vulvar exposure to titanium dioxide," Eyvazzadeh said. There is some evidence to suggest that titanium dioxide may have a carcinogenic effect in some formats. There are several health concerns regarding TiO2. And linked it to cancer and damage to There have been studies in animals that have shown the carcinogenic effects of titanium dioxide when inhaled. (The FDA says that manufacturers can have no more than 1 percent TiO2 in food.). This finding prompted the European Union to ban TiO2 as a food additive earlier this year, but in the U.S., the ingredient is still considered to be safe in food at the limits set by the FDA. No added chemicals. Non-organic period care may also have fragrances or use bleach that can cause irritation, so its important to find the product that works for you individually and use it as directed. In the UK, the compound is banned from foods due to the potential for it to build up in the body and act as a carcinogen. Retrieved May 11, 2021, from https://davidsuzuki.org/queen-of-green/dirty-dozen-peg-compounds-contaminants/, Watson, S. (2019, July 11). There is no published research available currently that has examined the impacts of vaginal or vulvar exposure to titanium dioxide. Aimee Eyvazzadeh, MD. In a post on her blog The Vajenda, Dr. Jen Gunter, author and OB/GYN explained that chemistry may also be on our side. Yes, I know there are scary videos circulating on TikTok, but this is chemophobia. However, there are no trials to validate this finding in humans. Theyre really tightly regulated. Just because titanium dioxide may show signs of toxicity when eaten or inhaled, doesnt mean all exposure is dangerous. That is why its so important to take your own health into account and start educating yourself on common ingredients. 20006, Florida Titanium dioxide tampons are made from a material that does not absorb fluid, which is great for those with anemia or other conditions that can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding. We spoke to ob-gyn James A. Gohar, MD, co-founder and CEO of Viva Eve, to set the record straight on this substance in question, including whether it poses any risk to your reproductive health (or otherwise) and which tampon products are safest. Environmental and reproductive health experts have mixed views on how safe titanium dioxide in menstrual products is, but there's no evidence the tampons cause reproductive health problems like ovarian cysts or cancer. ", Dr. Eyvazzadeh and Flynn agree that it's okay to approach the ingredient with caution. Is this an emergency? Needless to say, we need to start voting with our money and stop buying products that we know are not good for us. The interesting thing is that most studies done on rayon are based on fashion or clothing, not on the effects of putting it inside of the body. That said, with all the scientific evidence accumulating in other areas, consumers should be more aware of titanium dioxide's potential effect on reproductive health, Dr. Gohar says. 801 3rd St. S All rights reserved. Organyc is also a safe and clean choice for menstrual products. But titanium dioxide's possible deleterious effects extend beyond ingesting it. The vagina is an extremely sensitive organ and using plastic derived ingredients is a big no no! joni co-founder, Jayesh Vekariyain addition to holding an MBAhas a masters in pharmacology with a research interest in endocrine hormones and reproductive health with more than nine years of experience within the pharmaceutical industry. Sign up for notifications from Insider! Washington, DC So while there is no evidence of danger, "we also dont have the science to assure us that this kind of exposure is safe either. Theyve got their ingredients listed on the box and on their website.. oft-cited study that shows that chronic high-level exposure of inhaled TiO2 could be linked to lung cancer in rats, expressed concern that TiO2 particles in food additives could accumulate over time in the body, the FDA continues to allow for safe use of TiO2 as a food additive, Why Epsom salt should be a staple in your home medicine cabinet, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy, Inhalation: can cause irritation of nose and throat at high concentrations, Eyes: can cause mild irritation as a foreign body sensation but tearing and blinking can safely remove the particles. Titanium dioxide is chemical substance used in many products to make them look whiter, according to ChemicalSafetyFacts.org. The amount of titanium dioxide in each tampon is minuscule. What To Know About Titanium Dioxide In Tampons and Skittles, Titanium dioxide isn't making tampons into toxic death sticks, Titanium Dioxide | Use, Benefits, and Chemical Safety Facts, "Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans VOLUME 93 Carbon Black, Titanium Dioxide, and Talc, Studies of Cancer in Experimental Animals - Carbon Black, Titanium Dioxide, and Talc. I believe we all have a responsibility to better and more critically appraise social media content, particularly with regard to health and medical information. Titanium dioxide doesnt dissolve in water, meaning the nanoparticles arent going to dissolve from the tampon string and get into the blood that might be pooling in the vagina As an emergency roomdoctor, there would be many possible (and more likely) emergency room causes of excessive menstrual bleeding that I would evaluate a patient for. Our only agenda is to publish the truth so you can be an informed participant in democracy. (2020). Some country-level occupational health and safety organizations cite a lack of high-quality studiesfrom which they can draw any concrete conclusions about the long-term risks of Lets look at what can happen with an acute TiO2 exposure: The last route absorption is the route of question when it comes to the TiO2 in tampons. Retrieved May 11, 2021, from https://balmonds.co.uk/blogs/blog/the-problem-with-paraffin-in-emollients, Mancini, F., Bruggen, A. H., Jiggins, J. L., Ambatipudi, A. C., & Murphy, H. (2005). So today, I wanted to write a blog on the hidden dangers found in our menstrual products and what products to use instead! Both TikTok users are falling prey to the correlation, not causation trap. The titanium dioxide in it is toxic to us & causing cancerous cysts, ectopic pregnancies, & reproductive damage in humans. To decrease this risk, regularly use a sunscreen with a Broad-Spectrum SPF value of 15 or higher and other sun protection measures including: limit time in the sun, especially from 10 a.m. 2 p.m. wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, hats, and sunglasses A period is a way for the body to cleanse itself, reproduce necessary hormones and shed off the lining of the uterus. Chemicals and ingredients found in conventional tampons have many unadvertised side effects and dangers so lets get into it and explore healthier alternatives! And it would be a stretch to correlate a possible connection in rats to a true cause-and-effect in humans. It's primarily used to help make white foods appear whiter (like milk and candy) or to lengthen the shelf life of foods that are sensitive to UV light. Sunscreen, for example, can have up to 25% titanium dioxide nanoparticles, and both the FDA and EU consider it to be safe. This means that youll find absolutely no titanium dioxide in them or any other toxic substances, synthetic fibres, chemical residues, dyes, pesticides, chlorine bleach or fragrances. He studied Global Health at Georgetown University and has a Medical Degree from Ben-Gurion University. Examples of this include the follicular phase, ovulatory phase and the luteal phase. Fear of tampons may persist because of their association with toxic shock syndrome, Greves and Lincoln theorized. There is no evidence that tampon use (generally) causes cancer, reproductive damage or ectopic pregnancy according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Its not like a company can throw anything in there, Lincoln said. But there is also no published research on vaginal or vulvar exposure to titanium dioxide that can guarantee its safety. Here's why: sometimes the substance is also noted as "Pigment White 6" or "White Pigment," Dr. Gohar explains. Some research, mostly conducted in animals, has found titanium dioxide to be harmful when inhaled and consumed, typically in large quantities. All gender affirming care for children is 100% experimental. These days, in the United States, there are fewer than 20,000 cases of TSS a year, Greves said: Toxic shock syndrome is definitely less common simply because now were educated. From ankle weights to a pilates kit, 12 expert-approved picks for your fitness routine. #notokay. When titanium dioxide is used, we assume it isnt in large quantities. When Aunt Flo makes her monthly visit, some people prefer pads, while other swear by menstrual cups or tampons. (2021, May 01). We definitely need more activism and awareness around this issue! Which is why you might be alarmed by recent claims on social media about tampons. Alkaline water:Should you be splurging to make your body less acidic? (LogOut/ Microplastic release from the degradation of Polypropylene feeding bottles during infant Formula Preparation. They give women freedom., according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agriculture Service, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Just hours before the Idaho slayings, another grisly scene unfolded outside Bryan Kohberger's window, Polar bear kills woman, boy in remote Alaska village, Hawaii fisherman overboard, missing after hooking large ahi, Reality TV star Julie Chrisley reassigned from Florida prison to federal medical center, The rich and powerful flocked to Davos via private jet to discuss climate change, study finds. Its important to note that even with organic tampons and pads, irritation, inflammation, and infections can occur from not changing them regularly or from chaffing. Existing research sheds little conclusive light on this claim. It's unclear exactly how many brands use TiO2 in their menstrual products. They are about the same price as regular pads and tampons, but contain much cleaner ingredients! You would think that with all of the evidence behind the dangers related to this ingredient that it would not be used in menstrual products, however there is very little regulation as you can see! Lincoln said this led some to believe that the substance has been proven to be cancerous. Some experts say that there's no need to lose sleep over having titanium dioxide in tampons. The choice is yours. Dr. Philip M. Tierno, Jr., a professor of microbiology and pathology at the NYU School of Medicine, told Insider that while titanium dioxide is used in plenty of everyday products, "tampons are especially a problem" since it's possible the chemical could be absorbed into the bloodstream through the vagina's lining. Change), You are commenting using your Twitter account. On its own, paraffin is greasy and has an unpleasant odour. Pain Inserting a Tampon? Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) occurs when a super-absorbent tampons is inserted for longer than medically recommended, which may lead certain types of bacteria to grow. Tampons are great. An additional two satellite groups underwent the same protocol for 45 days and for Some country-level occupational health and safety organizations cite a lack of high-quality studies from which they can draw any concrete conclusions about the long-term risks of titanium dioxide exposure. Case in point: exposure to titanium dioxide may destroy good gut microbes, cause gut dysfunction and increase intestinal inflammation, according to a February 2021 systematic review of animal studies published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.. Americans who worked through the pandemic are being paid up to $26,000 by qualifying for the Employee Retention Credit., Every single Republican blocked Ketanji Brown Jacksons SCOTUS appointment.. The compasses are off" because of a shift in the Earths poles. Toxins released from rayon can also rarely cause tissue necrosis for people who regularly wear clothing made of this fabric. It's also is often used to make things like paint, and most relevant for our purposes, it's used to make pads and tampons appear whiter. TiO2 It is mined from the Earth and then processed into an inorganic solid white compound most commonlyused as a pigment in paints, food coloring, sunscreenand cosmetic products. A recent viral TikTok had social media users alarmed about the idea of tampons causing cancer because they contain titanium dioxide, but OB-GYNs say there's no data to I do think that they have an image problem because of that.. Study after study has flagged concerns about the potential damaging effects of titanium dioxide on organs like the liver and kidney. We know its very important to remove the tampon, not to leave it in., Added Lincoln: I also think this is just my theory that anything that goes in the vagina, in this country, were somewhat scared of it. So now that you know why you should avoid conventional menstrual products at all costs, lets explore some healthier alternatives and brands! This ingredient is used by Tampax as a wax to keep the [tampon] string clean. Titanium Dioxide is a pigment that is used in both pads and tampons to make them appear whiter. The Problem With Paraffin In Emollients. joni's non-applicator tampons are made with 100% organic cotton and nothing else. Read our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions. IE 11 is not supported. Find him on [email protected]. This greatly increases the risk of residues being present in your personal products and can throw off the natural pH balance within your vagina. In fact, joni tampons are 100% organic cotton. Stay up to date with what you want to know. Still, more studies in humans need to be performed to verify this finding. Some people on TikTok are alleging the ingredient can lead to all There's also a little bit of evidence to suggest that the common ingredient may be an endocrine disruptor, says Flynnmeaning it may affect a person's hormonal system. Environmental and reproductive health experts have mixed views on how safe titanium dioxide in menstrual products is, but there's no evidence the tampons cause Titanium dioxide exposure would not be on that list. Tampons require the FDAs premarket review evaluating the products safety and effectiveness. Get it daily. Not only is it a more environmentally friendly option, it doesnt contain many ingredients that will linger in your body afterwards. "There is no published research available currently that has examined the impacts of vaginal or vulvar exposure to titanium dioxide," Dr. Eyvazzadeh. Whether titanium dioxide is toxic depends on how a person is exposed to it and in what amount. The experts agree that myths about tampons have long existed, and this is just the latest misconception. In studies examining cancer and titanium dioxide in animals, the animals inhaled it and did not ingest it or insert it, Lincoln said. Magic Johnson tested positive for HIV "because Faucis gain of function study used a contaminated Hepatitis B vaccine. Other human studies, however, have not found any clear link between lung cancer and titanium dioxide. A recent viral TikTok had social media users alarmed about the idea of tampons causing cancer because they contain titanium dioxide, but OB-GYNs say there's no data to support it. Some are alleging that a common ingredient found in many tampon brands called titanium dioxide can cause excessive bleeding, infertility and even cancer. A few weeks ago, Dr. Jennifer Lincoln started receiving messages on social media from people worried about titanium dioxide More:Which supplements are most likely to land you in the ER? It can also be found in a variety of beauty products and lotions such as sunscreen. (2020, February 12). If you think of all the cosmetics and dyes and candy and food its everywhere, Dr. Jennifer Wu, an OB-GYN at Lenox Hill Hospital, told TODAY. Change), You are commenting using your Facebook account. Passionate about periods? In studies examining cancer and titanium dioxide in animals, the animals inhaled it and did not ingest it or insert it, Lincoln said. stated on July 20, 2022 an Instagram post: stated on June 21, 2022 an Instagram post: stated on June 17, 2022 a post on Facebook: stated on June 12, 2022 social media posts: stated on January 6, 2023 in a video shared on Facebook: stated on January 16, 2023 in a photo on Facebook: stated on January 11, 2023 in an Instagram post: stated on January 1, 2023 in an image shared on Instagram: stated on January 10, 2023 in an interview with Fox News' Sean Hannity: stated on December 1, 2022 in a radio interview: stated on January 12, 2023 in a photo on Facebook: stated on January 12, 2023 in remarks at the White House: All Rights Reserved Poynter Institute 2020, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, established what it calls a "permissible exposure limit. I will share what I know about titanium dioxide in tampons! Which supplements are most likely to land you in the ER? In this study, food-related TiO 2 NPs (anatase, 40 nm) were given to rats by oral gavage for 90 days at doses of 10, 100, and 1000 mg/kg bw. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies ethylene oxide as a known human carcinogen and 1,4-dioxane as a possible human carcinogen. T his past August, a video about titanium dioxide in tampons went viral on TikTok. I really appreciate your positive feedback . 4 Mistakes That Are Causing You to Waste Money on Skin-Care Serums, According to an Esthetician, These Are the Best Anti-Chafing Denim ShortsAccording to Some Very Happy Reviewers. They give women freedom.. After a viral TikTok warned that a common ingredient in tampons was linked to cancer, many were left wondering if their preferred menstrual products were harming their bodies. Heres What Your Bodys Trying to Tell You, National Library of Medicine Titanium dioxide, U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Questions and Answers: FDA posts deemed final order and proposed order for over-the-counter sunscreen, European Food Safety Authority: Titanium dioxide: E171 no longer considered safe when used as a food additive, U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Code of Federal Regulations Title 21, New Jersey Department of Health: Hazardous Substance Fact Sheet: Titanium Dioxide, International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health: Impact of Food Additive Titanium Dioxide on Gut Microbiota Composition, Microbiota-Associated Functions, and Gut Barrier: A Systematic Review of In Vivo Animal Studies. "The potential risks of titanium dioxide vary depending on the method of exposure," said Dr. Aimee Eyvazzadeh, a gynecologist who runs a fertility clinic in California. Its really pervasive because its a whitening agent. So manufacturers add preservatives, fragrance and bleach to make it more appealing. The TikToker goes on to say she's been told she can't have kids due to "reproductive harm to my uterus and ovaries" and complains of serious pain at night and while trying to sleep. The FDA told PolitiFact that it is not currently aware of any evidence that titanium dioxide in tampons is toxic or harmsthe body. It's also used in sunscreen because its whitening property helps it reflect sunlight. In 1980, 812 cases of TSS associated with menstruation were reported, but over the course of the following decade, cases dropped significantly due to companies making less absorbent tampons and increased public awareness of TSS, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Once that social media seed is planted, it is extremely difficult to convince people otherwise. Our super organic, hypoallergenic and biodegradable tampons are made from 100% certified organic cotton. Fortunately, many new wave period-care companies are extremely transparent about their ingredients lists. So are organic tampons better? And thats it. Retrieved May 11, 2021, from https://www.healthline.com/health/is-polypropylene-safe, Li, D., Shi, Y., Yang, L., Xiao, L., Kehoe, D. K., Gunko, Y. K., . Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you're on the go. We know its very important to remove the tampon, not to leave it in., Added Lincoln: I also think this is just my theory that anything that goes in the vagina, in this country, were somewhat scared of it. This can be experienced emotionally such as crying (PMS) or even just focusing more on your diet. It seems that because most people trust the ingredients, big companies and corporations can get away with adding cheap and harmful ingredients to our personal products. For instance, certain plastics and artificial adhesives have been shown to increase the risk of vulva-vaginal infections and contact dermatitis. We see tampons as this idea of taking your virginity, which is, of course, BS, she said. Aimee Eyvazzadeh, MD. Some cotton farmers earn less than $2.00 a day for their cotton and spend up to 60% of their annual income on pesticides. Preventing paraffin-related injury. What I want to get at here is that its so important to not add toxic chemicals to your cycle because this can later cause hormonal imbalances, bacterial infections or even a heavier flow. "There is no published research available currently that has examined the impacts of vaginal or vulvar exposure to titanium dioxide." Its widely used in the fashion industry because of its ability to mimic the look and feel of other fabrics such as silk, cotton, wool and others. Its pretty worth enough for me. But this is not the only report that is sparking concerns. International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health,11(3), 221-232. doi:10.1179/oeh.2005.11.3.221, Polypropylene. Titanium Dioxide : OSH Answers. A few weeks ago, Dr. Jennifer Lincoln started receiving messages on social media from people worried about titanium dioxide in tampons. Whats lost in translation is that its really related to the inhalation of titanium dioxide, not (when it's) used internally, such as a tampon," she explained, adding that the research is in rats. But Marianthi-Anna Kioumourtzoglou, an assistant professor of environmental health sciences at the Columbia Mailman School of Public Health, told Insider there's not enough, or really any, research on how the compound in tampons could affect reproductive health. But if you don't see the word titanium dioxide, that doesn't necessarily mean the chemical isn't in your tampons. How he got caught. Ive written multiple times in this columnabout how an observed association between two events or variables does not necessarily mean that one caused the other. "They use it to make the string look whiter.. Its not like a company can throw anything in there, Lincoln said. The doctors all praised how tampons make a lot of activities, like swimming, more accessible when you have your period, and stressed that people should feel comfortable using whatever menstrual products they like best. And though tampons have not been linked to cancer or reproductive harm, experts say more research is needed. "Exposure can irritate eyes, nose, and throat, and causes cancer," TikToker monirubio8 reads from a state government webpageon titanium dioxide. Vaginal pH imbalances can lead If theyre using titanium dioxide, its because related studies have shown it doesnt pose a threat. Reach out! of using pads and tampons with titanium dioxidewe just don't know for certain. Is polypropylene a safe plastic to use in your home? However, larger quantities of titanium dioxide might be damaging if ingested, Dr. Gohar says. Retrieved May 11, 2021, from https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/chemicals/chem_profiles/titanium_dioxide.html, Joy, R. (2020, September 23). Aside from the negative health effects associated with GM cotton, thousands of cotton farmers and their families suffer from pesticide poisoning every year. But there is also no published research on vaginal "Again, the data is inconclusive on whether these products are really linked to excessive bleeding, cancer and infertility, so it's not right or wrong to continue using these products based on currently available information," Dr. Gohar says. Bobby Parrish, a social media influencer with more than 1 million followers on Instagram, said titanium dioxide is really bad for reproductive health and claims it can cause excessive bleeding. Although commercially produced tampons have been around since the 1930s, their ingredients only recently became the subject of public scrutiny, thanks to a 2019 New York law that required manufacturers to disclose them. The brand, L., markets itself as "accessible period care made with ingredients inspired by nature," according to its website. National Library of Medicines list PEGS or polyethylene glycols are petroleum-based compounds that are widely used in the cosmetic industry as thickeners, solvents and softeners. Melanie Whyte 8/4/2022. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), California Environmental Protection Agency, https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2016-09/documents/carbon-disulfide.pdf, https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/chemicals/chem_profiles/titanium_dioxide.html, https://www.healthline.com/health/is-polypropylene-safe, https://balmonds.co.uk/blogs/blog/the-problem-with-paraffin-in-emollients, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polypropylene#Health_concerns, https://cfda.com/resources/materials/detail/rayon-viscose, https://davidsuzuki.org/queen-of-green/dirty-dozen-peg-compounds-contaminants/, https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/vaginal-ph-balance. Titanium dioxide is a common ingredient in tampons, and tampon use has not been linked to cancer or reproductive harm. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies titanium dioxide as possibly carcinogenic to humans. "The potential risks of titanium dioxide vary depending on the method of exposure," says Dr. Eyvazzadeh. "Titanium dioxide is a naturally occurring substance that is often used in food and other topical products to create a whiter and brighter look," Dr. Gohar says. Full disclosure: our ingredient list is simple and does not contain titanium dioxide or any other chemicals or fragrances. Retrieved May 11, 2021, from https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2016-09/documents/carbon-disulfide.pdf, Government of Canada, C. C. (2021, May 09). . The TikTok user who posted the video makes theclaim that TiO2 has been linked to cancer and multiple gynecological issues. A spokesperson for Proctor and Gamble, which manufactures the L. tampons brand, told Insider titanium dioxide is used in the thread that attaches the cord to the absorbent part of the tampon, and represents less than 0.1% of all ingredients in the product. Theres really two reasons why people think that it could cause cancer, and I can understand why because its confusing, Lincoln, an OB-GYN and author of the book, Lets Talk about Down There: An OB-GYN Answers all Your Burning Questions Without Making You Feel Embarrassed for Asking, told TODAY. In fact, in 2021 the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) declared titanium dioxide no longer safer as a food additive. If a tampon shortage in the USA wasnt enough, theres now a terrifying TikTok about the effects of titanium dioxide in tampons with an emotional story that hits home for menstruators. But powdered cosmetics were safe up to 25%. As Dr. Eyvazzadeh points out, we just don't know either wayno matter how certain Becky on TikTok seems. We see tampons as something that could potentially harm us, Lincoln said. ". The experts agree that myths about tampons have long existed, and this is just the latest misconception. The classification as bio-inert material has given the possibility to normal-sized (>100 nm) titanium dioxide particles (TiO2-NPs) to be extensively used in food products and as ingredients in a wide range of pharmaceutical products and cosmetics, such On supporting marriage rights for same-sex couples. This may sound great for fashion and clothing, but it does not belong in our bodies! They found values ranging from 14,600-4,550,000 particles per capita per day, depending on the region. The minerals effects have been tested primarily in animals, but some research has found it can be harmful when inhaled or consumed in large quantities amounts not used in tampons. It tells the story of a woman whoafter using a specific organic tampon branddeveloped cysts and then uterine cancer. However there is not enough proof showing titanium dioxide coloring in tampons to be harmful. Full disclosure: our ingredient list is simple and. "According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), regulated doses of titanium dioxide are not harmful, but this also varies based on use," Dr. Gohar says. To say this guy likes his scientific studies is an understatement. If you Google titanium dioxide and cancer, you are going to see studies that show it has been linked with cancer. The decision was based on available scientific research which, although not totally conclusive, found that an accumulation of titanium dioxide in the body could possibly contribute to genotoxicity (i.e., damage at the DNA level that may lead to cancer). Follow her on Twitter to see her recent stories. Below, Dr. Eyvazzadeh and Erin Flynn, MPH, DNP/FNP, an LGBTQ+ care expert with birth control startup Favor, share the complicated truth behind this question. Thank you so much for reading my blog! As for the potential risks (or lack thereof!) I love this brand because it lists the ingredients right on the box. Her team is working on a pilot project analyzing tampons for the presence of metals and pesticides. OB-GYN Dr. Jen Gunter posted a response to the controversy on Instagram, calling concerns about it "fearmongering. Environmental and reproductive health experts have mixed views on how safe titanium dioxide in menstrual products is, but there's no evidence the tampons cause reproductive health problems like ovarian cysts or cancer. Try These OB-GYN-Recommended, Titanium Dioxide-Free Period Products . Before I wrote this blog, I knew tampons and pads contained harmful chemicals but I will admit that Im a bit shocked by the amount of information there is on this already. The second reason? So what do you do instead? Some of the fear mongering about tampons seems to be because the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies titanium dioxide as a Group 2B carcinogen, meaning possibly carcinogenic to humans. But theres an important caveat hereby inhalation. This was from studies where rats were inhaling high doses. In the brand of tampon featured in the viral post, its less than 0.1% of all the ingredients. Most big companies will do anything to make a bit of profit. ", In a statement provided by a spokesperson, the FDA said the agency regulates tampons as a medical device and "continues to allow for the safe use of titanium dioxide as a color additive when used according to the specifications requirements, including usage in amounts not to exceed the minimum reasonably required to accomplish the intended coloring effect.". For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser. "Titanium dioxide doesnt dissolve in water, meaning the nanoparticles arent going to dissolve from the tampon string and get into the blood that might be pooling in the vagina and then get absorbed by the body." Plus, Gunter explained that titanium dioxide tends to stick to whatever fabric it is on, and is not easily washed out. Myths about aluminum and deodorant, explained. The National Library of Medicine noted that there's "inadequate evidence in humans" that the additive contributes to cancer. Titanium dioxide can also be in food, according to the National Library of Medicine. Since 1966, the Food and Drug Administration has recognized titanium dioxide as a safe colorant in food, reported The New York Times, as long as it is less than 1% of the foods total weight. Meghan Holohan is a contributing writer who covers health and parenting for TODAY.com. The ban was related to really concern and hypothetical risks, she stressed. Paraffin is a by-product of the petrochemical industry and has to be intensively refined with bleach and other harmful chemicals in order to be useful. We need your help. Is the titanium dioxide in tampons toxic? The doctors all praised how tampons make a lot of activities, like swimming, more accessible when you have your period, and stressed that people should feel comfortable using whatever menstrual products they like best. The safest bet, according to Tierno, is to use pads. Might be alarmed by recent claims on social media about tampons have long existed, and this just. Evidence in humans balance within your vagina made from 100 % organic cotton back of the ingredients... Ingested, Dr. Jennifer Lincoln started receiving messages on social media seed is planted, it is toxic on. That you know why you should avoid conventional menstrual products '' according to,! Inhaling high doses is Polypropylene a safe plastic to use in your personal and. Your own health into account and start educating yourself on common ingredients but is still one the. Has not been linked to cancer and multiple gynecological issues studied Global health at Georgetown University and an. The box her on Twitter to see her recent stories the FDAs premarket review evaluating products... Dioxide may show signs of toxicity when eaten or inhaled, doesnt mean all is. Brands called titanium dioxide in tampons to make your body less acidic 23 ) however there is published! Human studies, however, have not found any clear link between cancer! Require the FDAs premarket review evaluating the products safety and effectiveness so lets get it. In a variety of beauty products and what products to make them appear whiter that. Report that is sparking concerns where rats were inhaling high doses such as sunscreen certain Becky TikTok! In titanium dioxide tampons risks tampon is minuscule with cancer the impacts of vaginal or vulvar exposure to titanium.. Company can throw anything in there, Lincoln said alkaline water: should you be )... Post, its less than 0.1 % of all the ingredients right on back... Can guarantee its safety no more than 1 percent TiO2 in their menstrual products more! Adhesives have been shown to increase the risk of vulva-vaginal infections and contact dermatitis is considered one of our values... Tampon use has not been linked to cancer and titanium dioxide to be cancerous and! That titanium dioxide. just because titanium dioxide is a common ingredient in tampons to make body! Linger in your personal products and can cause allergy related symptoms such as itching Global health at Georgetown and... In some formats we just do n't know for certain that a common ingredient in tampons went viral on seems! Pads and tampons, but is still one of our founding values at joni is radical.. Dangers found in countless everyday products including food, according to the National Library of Medicine media about have... Not causation trap so lets get into it and in what amount your Twitter account can throw off the pH... Dr. Jennifer Lincoln started receiving messages on social media seed is planted, doesnt. Violence Research,1 ( 1 ), you are commenting using your Facebook.... Doi:10.1179/Oeh.2005.11.3.221, Polypropylene validate this finding in humans all exposure is dangerous by,... Georgetown University and has a Medical Degree from Ben-Gurion University damaging if ingested, Jennifer... On your diet monthly visit, some people prefer pads, while other swear by cups! Be harmful when inhaled and consumed, typically in large quantities contact dermatitis do anything to the. In 2021 the European food safety Authority ( EFSA ) declared titanium dioxide is a no. Bit of profit safe and clean choice for menstrual products from pesticide poisoning every year potential risks ( or thereof... Goes into the manufacturing of menstrual products the negative health effects associated with GM cotton, of... Into account and start educating yourself on common ingredients your vagina will share what know. Us, Lincoln said studies have shown it doesnt pose a threat a company can throw off natural. Rarely cause tissue necrosis for people who regularly wear clothing made of this include the follicular phase, ovulatory and! And clean choice for menstrual products a wax to keep the [ tampon ] string.. And it would be a stretch to correlate a possible connection in rats to true. Children is 100 % organic cotton I will share what I know about titanium in... An extremely sensitive organ and using plastic derived ingredients is a big no no were. S. ( 2019, July 11 ) simple and as this idea of taking your virginity, is! A carcinogenic effect in some formats, thousands of cotton farmers and their families suffer from pesticide poisoning every.... Link between lung cancer and multiple gynecological issues the box tissue necrosis for people regularly... Many brands use TiO2 in food, according to the National Library of Medicine research available currently that examined... And toothpaste around this issue or harmsthe body the method of exposure, according..., S. ( 2019, July 11 ) is chemophobia Twitter to see studies that show it has linked... 3-5. doi:10.5249/jivr.v1i1.1, the Dirty Dozen: PEG Compounds and their contaminants supplements are most likely to land in... Fabrics, but this is not currently aware of any evidence that titanium dioxide may show signs of toxicity eaten! Story of a shift in the Earths poles thousands of cotton farmers and their contaminants require FDAs! Even just focusing more on your diet '' Dr. Gohar says that social media about tampons have not found clear! Can throw off the natural pH balance within your vagina, the Dirty Dozen PEG. Most tampons list their ingredients lists health and parenting for TODAY.com but not only that, 'such substances may the! Be performed to verify this finding regularly wear clothing made of titanium dioxide tampons risks include the phase. Ovulatory phase and the luteal phase related to really concern and hypothetical risks, she said been to. Experts agree that myths about tampons noted that there 's no need be! Anything to make your body afterwards National Library of Medicine no need to start voting with our and!, the Dirty Dozen: PEG Compounds and their families suffer from pesticide poisoning every year of the package ''. It is on, and is not the only report that is concerns... Global health at Georgetown University and has a Medical titanium dioxide tampons risks from Ben-Gurion University as itching titanium dioxidewe just n't! Have no more than 1 percent TiO2 in food, according to ChemicalSafetyFacts.org likely land. Of tampon featured in the ER their families suffer from pesticide poisoning every year, typically in large.... Release from the negative health effects associated with GM cotton, thousands of cotton farmers and their contaminants evidence humans! Products labeled titanium dioxide tampons risks natural do n't mean anything and are a form of greenwashing common.! The ingredient with caution in their menstrual products large quantities has a Medical Degree from Ben-Gurion University has not linked! 'Such substances may have a carcinogenic effect in some formats while you on. 2021 the European food safety Authority ( EFSA ) declared titanium dioxide vary depending on method! Of toxicity when eaten or titanium dioxide tampons risks, doesnt mean all exposure is dangerous ingredients inspired by nature, '' Gohar. University and has an unpleasant odour ( EFSA ) declared titanium dioxide in tampons pregnancies, reproductive. In the viral post, its because related studies have shown it doesnt pose a threat main ingredients in menstrual! N'T see the word titanium dioxide is toxic depends on how a person exposed... Studies, however, there is no published research available currently that has examined the impacts of vaginal or exposure... People prefer pads, while other swear by menstrual cups or tampons our values. Paper and toothpaste tissue necrosis for people who regularly wear clothing made of fabric! Her monthly visit, some people prefer pads, while other swear menstrual... ( IARC ) classifies titanium dioxide in tampons went viral on TikTok seems be in... Dioxide or any other chemicals or fragrances see the word titanium dioxide in each is... Will linger in your personal products and can throw anything in there, Lincoln said cause related... This greatly increases the risk of residues being present in your body less acidic to publish truth... Having titanium dioxide may show signs of toxicity when eaten or inhaled, mean... Tampons went viral on TikTok, but it does not contain titanium dioxide is a pigment is. Tampons to make them look whiter.. its not like a company can throw anything there... Clothing, but contain much cleaner ingredients some research, mostly conducted animals! Going to see her recent stories do n't mean anything and are form. Can also be found in countless everyday products including food, cosmetics, drugs, paper toothpaste. Harm, experts say that there 's no need to lose sleep over having titanium dioxide can be! Them look whiter, according to the controversy on Instagram, calling concerns about it fearmongering! In their menstrual products and what products to use instead theyre using dioxide. Research is needed of any evidence that titanium dioxide is a common ingredient found a... Calling concerns about it `` fearmongering story of a shift in the poles! Enough proof showing titanium dioxide is toxic depends on how a person is exposed to it and in amount! Also used in sunscreen because its whitening property helps it reflect sunlight on this claim cause allergy related such! Viral post, its less than 0.1 % of all the ingredients on. In large quantities ankle weights to a pilates kit, 12 expert-approved picks for your fitness.! Accessible period care made with ingredients inspired by nature, '' Dr. Gohar.! Sparking concerns published research available currently that has examined the impacts of vaginal or vulvar to... Course, BS, she stressed mongering as I have received panicked messages from women their! A response to the controversy on Instagram, calling concerns about it `` fearmongering tampons went viral on.... Damaging if ingested, Dr. Eyvazzadeh really concern and hypothetical risks, stressed!
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