A new report has revealed disturbing levels of toxic chemicals in tampons sold on UK high streets. According to research by the Women’s Environmental Network (WEN) and Pesticide Action Network UK, some menstrual products contain pesticide residues up to 40 times higher than what is legally allowed in drinking water.
The study highlights the presence of glyphosate, a widely used weed killer that has been classified as a probable carcinogen by the World Health Organisation. This herbicide is believed to make its way into tampons through the cotton used in their production. Glyphosate exposure has been linked to serious health risks, including cancer.
Even more concerning, some tampons were found to contain Chlorpyrifos, an insecticide that has been banned in the UK because of its harmful effects on the nervous system. Despite its ban, traces of the chemical were still detected in some brands of menstrual products.
Health Experts Raise Red Flags
Ruby Raut, CEO of sustainable period brand WUKA, voiced her concern about the potential dangers of such chemical exposure.
“The vagina is one of the most absorbent parts of the body,” she explained. “Chemicals absorbed here skip the body’s natural detox processes and enter the bloodstream directly. Unlike exposure through food or water, this route poses a far greater risk. This isn’t just irresponsible—it’s dangerous.”
She added, “It’s shocking that in 2025 we’re still allowing products designed for intimate use to contain substances linked to serious health issues.”
No Mandatory Disclosure of Ingredients
One of the key issues raised in the report is the lack of transparency and regulation in the UK. Manufacturers are not legally required to list the ingredients in tampons and other menstrual products. There are also no specific rules to limit pesticide residues in the final items sold to consumers.
The researchers argue that because of the intimate nature of these products, stricter safety measures are essential. The report urges that residue levels in menstrual products should be kept below detection limits, especially since many of the chemicals found have no known safe exposure levels.
A Call for Urgent Reform
Campaigners are calling on the UK government to take immediate action to regulate the manufacture of menstrual products more strictly. They want clear labeling requirements and stricter controls to prevent pesticide contamination during the production process.
The findings have sparked outrage among both health experts and consumers, raising fresh concerns about the safety of everyday hygiene items. With little legal oversight and growing evidence of chemical contamination, pressure is mounting for greater protection and transparency in the period care industry.
