Local gynecologists expect to answer more questions about tampon usage from their patients as they meet for regular checkups following a study finding measurable levels of 16 different metals in the period products.
CBS2 reports the study by University of California, Berkeley researchers found measurable levels of 16 metals in 30 tampons from 14 brands, organic and non-organic, sold in the U.S. and beyond.
Heavy metals increase the risk of cancer, diabetes, dementia, infertility, and damage to organs, hormones, and the cardiovascular system.
Researchers want more studies looking into these possibilities and the possibility of negative health impacts.
According to the study, if found harmful, the impact would be widespread as 52-86% of people who menstruate use tampons.
The researchers said they hope their findings encourage regulated testing by manufacturers.
One medically known and harmful complication of wearing tampons for too long is Toxic Shock Syndrome.
To avoid TSS from tampon usage, health experts recommend changing them at least every four to eight hours and alternating them with other period products.
