Researchers developed a broad safety assessment process to evaluate whether tampons are safe and comfortable for use during menstruation. The assessment looked at several important factors, including the safety of the materials used in the products, how tampons interact with vaginal tissue, whether they affect the natural vaginal microbiome, and whether they influence bacteria linked to toxic shock syndrome (TSS). The published data show that the main materials used in the tampons — such as cotton, rayon, and certain polymers — are commonly used throughout the industry and have a long history of safe use. Because these materials are large polymers, they are unlikely to pass through vaginal tissue. Researchers also evaluated smaller trace ingredients and determined that exposure levels remained well below established safety limits. To assess comfort and irritation, researchers examined the physical design of the tampons and confirmed there were no rough edges or sharp areas that could damage tissue.

In a clinical study, most participants reported comfortable use during insertion, wear, and removal. Reports of irritation, burning, or discomfort were uncommon, mild, and temporary, and no serious health concerns were identified. The study also explored whether tampon use could disrupt the vaginal microbiome — the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina. Both laboratory testing and clinical samples showed no meaningful changes linked to tampon use. Differences in vaginal bacteria were mainly due to normal variation between individuals rather than the products themselves.

Researchers also evaluated toxic shock syndrome risk by studying the growth of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria and production of the TSST-1 toxin in laboratory conditions. The tampon products did not increase bacterial growth or toxin production.

Overall, the findings suggest that the tampons evaluated in the study were safe, well tolerated, and did not negatively affect vaginal health under the conditions tested. Ongoing monitoring after the products reached consumers also supported the study’s conclusions, with no surprising safety concerns identified during real-world use.

For more information, please see: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42097300/