Women's Health Project: Fact Sheets

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Tampon Health

• Nearly all major-brand tampons contain synthetic fibers (Tampax "Naturals" is an exception).

• Studies have found that rayon, the synthetic fiber contained in commercial tampons, creates an ideal environment for the growth of the staphylococcus aureus bacteria, which causes Toxic Shock Syndrome.

• Major brand tampons are made of conventionally grown cotton which can be exposed to synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides and defoliants.

Alternatives to Synthetic Tampons

• 100% organic cotton tampons: Eco Yarn Company has developed and has a patent pending for the worlds first organic cotton tampon. This tampon, available in both regular and super sizes, has been made from certified organic cotton.

• Organic: Organic Essentials, Inc. offers quality products to consumers and to make a difference in sustainable and organic agriculture.

• Non-chlorine: Natracare is the world's first and leading manufacturer of non-chlorine bleached feminine protection tampons and pads.

• FemCare is all about informing women about the organic option in menstrual products and providing information about non-organic tampons and the dangers associated.

• Gladrags are pads made from soft cotton flannel that last for years.

• Many Moons has been offering washable menstrual pads and other alternative menstruation products to women for over eight years.

• Mama Elle sells reusable pads.

• Pandora Pads produces 100% certified organic cotton washable feminine pads that contain no synthetic materials. The cotton used in making this pad has been grown without the use of synthetic fertilizers, fungicides, herbicides, pesticides and defoliants.

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All the information contained in this fact sheet was obtained from
S.P.O.T.–The Tampon Health Website.

Posted Sept. 10, 2002