19 Mar Non-Toxic Period Care: Choosing Safe Alternatives

A recent study by the University of the Free State tested 16 popular sanitary pads and 7 pantyliners sold in South Africa, and the results were eye-opening. Every product tested contained trace amounts of two hormone-disrupting chemicals, including products marketed as “free from harmful chemicals.”

Although below regulatory limits, these findings have raised important questions about the hidden chemicals in everyday period products and the effects of repeated low-level exposure. Fortunately, non-toxic sanitary products offer effective and comfortable protection without posing a risk to your health.

What Are Sanitary Products Made Of?

Most conventional period products are made from a combination of materials designed to absorb fluid and prevent leaks.

Common materials include:

• Bleached cotton or rayon fibres for absorbency
• Synthetic materials to maintain shape and structure
• Plastic back sheets used in pads and liners
• Adhesives that keep products in place
• Artificial fragrances to mask odour

While these materials help products perform their function, they can bring you into contact with hormone-disrupting chemicals like phthalates, bisphenols, and parabens. These chemicals are typically found in fragrances, plastic back sheets, adhesives, and period packaging materials. 

Sanitary products also come into contact with your most sensitive skin and mucosal tissue, which can absorb chemicals more directly. Because of this, ingredient safety is especially important when choosing menstrual care.

Why Non-Toxic Menstrual Products Matter?

Understanding why low-tox menstrual products matter starts with recognising how frequently sanitary products are used. Most women use period products every month for several years, which means you could be repeatedly exposed to these chemicals over time. 

Research has linked certain endocrine-disrupting chemicals to potential health concerns, including hormonal disruption, reproductive health issues, and increased risk of some diseases.

To protect your health, the safest option is to use sanitary products that don’t contain any harmful chemicals.

What Are Non-Toxic Sanitary Products Made Of?

Non-toxic pads, tampons, and pantyliners are made from materials designed to limit your contact with potentially harmful substances. 

These products often include:

• Certified organic cotton for absorbent layers
• Breathable cotton top sheets for comfort
• Plant-based fibres like bamboo
• Biodegradable or plant-based back sheets

And avoid:

• Chlorine bleaching
• Artificial fragrances
• Synthetic dyes
• Excess plastic layers

Because organic cotton is grown without synthetic pesticides or herbicides, sanitary products made with organic cotton offer a gentler, more environmentally responsible choice for everyday menstrual care.

The benefits of Reusable Sanitary Products? 

You can also explore reusable menstrual products. These options are generally more cost-effective over time and significantly reduce waste. Conventional sanitary pads can contain up to 90% plastic, which takes hundreds of years to break down in landfills.

Popular options include:

Reusable cloth pads:
Soft, absorbent pads made from cotton or bamboo fabrics that can be washed and reused for up to three years. 

Menstrual cups:
Flexible cups made from medical-grade silicone that collect menstrual fluid rather than absorbing it.

Period underwear:
Specially designed underwear with built-in absorbent layers for leak protection.

How to Choose the Best Environmentally Friendly Menstrual Products 

When shopping for menstrual care, look for brands that prioritise ingredient transparency and safety.

Helpful indicators include:

• OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certification
• Certified organic cotton, like GOTS-Certified Organic Cotton
• No added fragrance
• No chlorine bleaching
• Clear ingredient disclosure

These features can help you identify safe sanitary products for periods that align with your health and environmental values.

A Safer Future for Period Care

Your menstrual cycle is a natural part of life, and the products you use should leave you feeling safe and comfortable. 
Whether you prefer organic cotton pads, tampons, menstrual cups, or period panties, Faithful to Nature offers a wide variety of chemical-conscious alternatives, so you can feel confident about your menstrual care choices.

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