The FDA has completed a comprehensive laboratory study on metals in tampons and concluded that the levels present pose no health risk to users. In July 2026, the agency published findings in the peer-reviewed journal Toxicological Sciences, confirming that while trace metals are detectable in tampons, the amounts released during normal use are far below what would be considered harmful.

What Prompted the FDA to Study Metals in Tampons?

The FDA's investigation began in response to a 2024 independent study that detected low levels of metals in tampons during laboratory testing. That study raised public concern by identifying the presence of metals in tampon materials, but it had significant limitations. The original 2024 study did not evaluate whether metals were actually released under realistic physiological conditions, nor did it test whether any metals were absorbed through the vaginal lining or into the bloodstream.

Recognizing the gap in the evidence, the FDA took action. In September 2024, the agency commissioned an independent systematic literature review to examine all available published research on contaminants in tampons. That review, completed in December 2024, analyzed nine published articles evaluating various contaminants, including metals, phthalates, parabens, bisphenols, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), dioxins, and triclocarban.

How Did the FDA Conduct Its Metal Study?

The FDA's laboratory study was designed to simulate real-world use conditions more accurately than the 2024 study. FDA scientists tested 11 different types of tampons from six brands and five manufacturers. The experimental conditions were specifically designed to mimic actual use, but extended for three times longer than manufacturers recommend, creating a worst-case scenario for metal exposure.

The key question the FDA investigated was whether metals could be released from tampon materials during use, whether those metals could be absorbed through the vaginal lining, and whether any absorbed amount would reach levels that could affect health. The study confirmed the presence of lead and 20 other metals in tampons. However, the FDA's toxicological risk assessment found that the levels were far below what would be considered harmful.

Steps to Use Menstrual Products Safely

• Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands before and after using any menstrual product to reduce the risk of introducing bacteria into the vaginal area.
• Regular Changes: Change your menstrual products regularly according to product instructions; wearing a product too long can allow harmful bacteria to grow and increase the risk of complications like toxic shock syndrome.
• Product Selection: Choose menstrual products based on your personal preferences and needs, whether tampons, pads, menstrual cups, or period underwear, since all types are regulated by the FDA as medical devices.
• Medical Attention: Contact your healthcare provider if you experience pain, fever, or other unusual symptoms while using menstrual products.

What Does the FDA's Systematic Review Tell Us?

The independent systematic literature review commissioned by the FDA examined the broader landscape of contaminants in tampons beyond just metals. The review included research on phthalates, which are chemicals used to make plastics flexible; parabens, which are preservatives; bisphenols, which are endocrine-disrupting chemicals that interfere with hormones; volatile organic compounds, which are gases released from materials; dioxins, which are byproducts of industrial processes; and triclocarban, an antimicrobial agent.

The findings from this comprehensive literature review supported the FDA's conclusion that tampons remain a safe menstrual product option. The available evidence did not identify significant health risks from the contaminants studied.

What's Next for Menstrual Product Regulation?

Beyond the metals study, the FDA is modernizing how menstrual products are regulated and labeled. In October 2025, the FDA issued a draft guidance titled "Menstrual Products: Performance Testing and Labeling Recommendations." This guidance provides recommendations to manufacturers to support the safety and effectiveness of menstrual products, including recommendations for evaluating products for contaminants and promoting transparency in ingredient labeling.

When finalized, this new guidance will replace the 2005 guidance document that previously governed tampon and pad submissions. The updated guidance aims to ensure consistency in performance testing across all menstrual products, whether tampons, pads, menstrual cups, or period underwear, and will require clearer ingredient disclosure on product labels.

All menstrual products marketed in the United States are regulated by the FDA as medical devices, meaning manufacturers must meet applicable regulations related to manufacturing, labeling, and reporting of device malfunctions and adverse events. The FDA reviews data submitted by manufacturers on product safety and effectiveness, monitors reports of problems, and conducts inspections of manufacturers when necessary.

For consumers concerned about menstrual product safety, the FDA's research provides reassurance that current products on the market have been evaluated for metal content and found to be safe. The agency continues to monitor emerging research and remains committed to evaluating the safety of menstrual products as new evidence becomes available.