Tampons contain pesticides toxic enough to cause CANCER

According to a May 2025 report, Glyphosate – a controversial weedkiller that has been linked to cancer – was found in tampons in the UK sold at 40 times the legal limit for drinking water.

The findings have reignited concern over the chemical safety of period products, and the lack regulation in the UK and Europe.

Alarm over glyphosate in period product

A new report by Wen and PAN UK has revealed worrying levels of glyphosate – a pesticide classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a “probable carcinogen” – in one of 15 boxes of UK tampons tested. The residue level was 40 times higher than the UK and EU drinking water limit (0.0001 mg/kg).

Although this small sample was found, activists say it points to a larger problem. “If glyphosate at this level is considered unsafe in water that we drink, then why is it allowed in our period products?” Amy Heley is the Public Affairs Manager for the Pesticide collaboration. (Citation by The Guardian.)

Glyphosate has been widely used in the production of cotton, including for pads and tampons. Chemicals absorbed through the vagina bypass the body’s detoxification processes and enter the bloodstream. This raises serious questions about the “safety” of these products.

Use of glyphosate in Europe: legal, but controversial

Despite public pressure glyphosate remains legal in the EU. In November 2023 the European Commission extended approval of glyphosate for 10 more years, up until December 15th 2033. The decision followed an EU-wide risk assessment which concluded there was “no scientific or legal justification for a ban” – but acknowledged ongoing public health concerns.

What you need to know is:

• Glyphosate can still be used for agriculture in the EU, but only with national approval and restrictions.
• Several member states have banned or restricted the use of certain substances.
• Due to its widespread usage, the chemical can still be detected in European water, food and even air.

Crucially, there is no EU residue limit for menstrual products, so levels like those found in UK tampons are not technically illegal – despite being higher than what’s allowed in food or water. This regulatory gap, say campaigners, must be filled.

When buying period products, consumers are not given the option to choose between toxic ingredients.

There is no requirement in the UK for tampon manufacturers to disclose what they put into their products. It means that substances which are potentially toxic, such as those listed below, can go unreported.

• PFAS “forever chemicals”

PFASs are synthetic chemicals. Over 4,700 different types exist. They are used for products that are water and stain resistant. According to US EPA and European Chemicals Agency reports, exposure to PFAS can increase the risk of developing kidney cancer. It can also reduce the weight of babies, decrease fertility and disrupt thyroid function. PFAS could weaken your immune system, cause cholesterol to rise, and damage your liver.

Phthalates, also known as phthalates, are chemical compounds used in plastics to give them flexibility and fragrance. These chemicals are known to disrupt hormones. According to WHO and NIH, phthalates may lower sperm quality and count, affect puberty, menstruation and increase the risk of endometriosis. These phthalates may also cause asthma and childhood obesity.

• Heavy metals, such as arsenic and lead

Heavy metals like arsenic and lead are toxic. Even small quantities can be harmful. Lead can cause kidney problems, high blood pressure and affect the brain’s development. It can also reduce fertility. Arsenic has been proven to cause cancer. It can also weaken your immune system and interfere with the way cells function.

• VOCs (volatile Organic Compounds)

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are gases that can easily escape from certain products, particularly those with glue or fragrance. Long-term exposure to VOCs can cause irritation of the lungs and headaches, fatigue and damage to the kidneys and liver. Some VOCs like benzene are known to cause lung cancer.

• Glyphosate, its by-product AMPA

Glyphosate, a common herbicide, is widely used. AMPA is its main by-product. WHO states that glyphosate “is probably carcinogenic for humans.” It may cause non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. It can also disrupt hormones and interfere with reproduction. AMPA is less toxic than MTBE, but it is still found in the environment.

The report calls on the UK government regulate menstrual product safety in the same manner as cosmetics, with full disclosure of ingredients, independent residue testing and strict safety standards.

Wen and PAN UK call on the government:

• Period products to be subjected to rigorous testing
• Label all ingredients and additives.
• Make sure that school schemes only offer certified organic and additive-free products
• To improve safety, access and transparency, pass the Menstrual Health Dignity and Sustainable Act.

As glyphosate remains legal in Europe and tampons are still largely unregulated the report serves to remind governments to take safety of menstrual goods seriously.

The use of tampons has long been associated with the toxic shock syndrome. However, women are now increasingly worried about potentially harmful chemicals that may be hidden within the products designed to help them menstruate.

You can read the entire report here. Blood, Sweat and Pesticides – May 2025

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