Do tampons have an effect on fertility?

It’s one of those things about monthly hygiene and especially tampons. The perfect solution for everyone does not (yet) seem to exist. Every product has its advantages and disadvantages.

Pads, for example, can itch and lead to unpleasant sweating moments in the underpants, especially in midsummer. The advantage, however, is that they are used externally, so they do not have to be inserted. With menstrual cups it can be a little bit challenging to find the right size for you and for some women the handling can be quite unfamiliar at first. Still, they are sustainable, environmentally friendly. And once you’ve gotten used to them, also very practical.

Can tampons be linked to infertility?

Tampons are among the most popular monthly hygiene products. They are available in different variations, with or without applicator (especially popular on the US market), and with wings to increase leakage safety. Truths and rumours circulate about the disadvantages of using tampons. One of them comes up again and again, especially with couples who wish to conceive, namely that tampons could cause infertility.

Tampons are inserted into the vagina and remain in the woman’s body for a few hours. Not only do they absorb the menstrual blood but they also absorb some vaginal fluid.  This can cause the vagina to become ‘dry’. Depending on the product and manufacturer, tampons can release harmful substances into the bloodstream. They can also impede natural air circulation between the vagina and the outside world. This can in turn lead to infections.  Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is widely known today. That’s why it’s warned about on every tampon pack.

Unfortunately, it is not always easy to determine which materials are actually used for the production of tampons, as either the composition is not declared on the packaging, or the ingredients are only declared vaguely. How exactly certain components of tampons affect the fertility of women certainly needs to be clarified and is the subject of current research. To simply claim that tampons have a negative effect on fertility is probably too hasty at this point in time. The necessary long-term studies and research results are still pending.