For decades, Wen has warned that the products millions rely on each month may not be safe. The evidence is now overwhelming.
Independent studies going back two decades have found toxic chemicals and heavy metals in menstrual products, from arsenic to biocidal silver. And this year, Wen’s own research with PAN UK uncovered pesticides in tampons at 40 times the safe limit for drinking water.
The Risks Are Real
The risks aren’t hypothetical. Chemicals and heavy metals detected in tampons, pads and period pants have been linked to:
- Hormone disruption
- Reduced fertility
- Cancers and other serious health impacts
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in particular are linked to gynaecological and reproductive diseases such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids and adenomyosis.
Vaginal tissue is far more absorbent than skin elsewhere on the body — studies suggest uptake can be up to 80% higher — making this a viable route of exposure that may help explain the rise in these conditions.
And now, so-called forever chemicals – substances that never break down – are showing up in period products and reusable products too. Even the fragrances added to “freshen” products can trigger irritation and allergic reactions which can lead to an increased risk of sexually transmitted infections.
We don’t need more placation – we need regulation
Despite two decades of research, public concern and political debate, regulation has barely moved. Wen is leading the call for change – demanding new laws to ensure period products are truly safe.
“We don’t need more placation – we need regulation.”
— Helen Lynn, Wen
The Tipping Point
This is the tipping point. Regulation is the only way to ensure all period products are safe to use. We need:
- Government regulation to ensure all disposable and reusable period products are safe to use and free of toxic chemicals
- Robust and independent testing of period products
- A legal requirement for manufacturers to disclose all ingredients and additives used in their period products
- To ensure all period products provided in schools and public facilities meet are safe and have materials and ingredients listed
What You Can Do
Be part of the global movement to make toxic period products a thing of the past:
Sign the petition – Join over 32,000 people demanding Government action to get toxic chemicals out of period products.
Sign and share the #ToxicFreePeriodsPetition
Support Wen’s Menstrual Health, Dignity and Sustainability Act – Backed by experts, academics and ethical brands.
Pledge your support
Write to Chemicals Minister Emma Hardy – Demand action to eliminate pesticides and harmful chemicals from period products.
Take action via PAN UK
Demand #ToxicFreePeriods this #EnvironmenstrualWeek (20–26 October) – Together we can turn the #ToxicTippingPoint into lasting change.
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