A recent investigation has uncovered troubling levels of pesticide residues in popular tampon brands, prompting renewed scrutiny around menstrual product safety. According to The Guardian (28 May 2025), laboratory tests detected chlorpyrifos at concentrations up to 40 times higher than what is legally allowed in drinking water.
The tests were carried out on behalf of Women’s Voices for the Earth (WVE), a US-based non-profit advocating for safer health and cleaning products. Samples of tampons sold in major American retail stores were found to contain a range of pesticides, including organophosphates and halogenated chemicals. Chlorpyrifos, a substance banned in many regions, is known for its potential effects on neurological development and the human nervous system.
How Regulation Has Fallen Behind
Despite being in direct contact with internal tissue, tampons are classified as medical devices in the United States. This classification exempts manufacturers from listing product ingredients, leaving consumers with little insight into how their menstrual care products are made.
In Australia, there are no mandatory labelling standards for tampon ingredients either. While some companies disclose materials voluntarily, many do not – leaving gaps in consumer knowledge. With such products used for hours at a time, this lack of transparency is increasingly being questioned.
Reusable Options Gaining Attention
In light of these findings, attention is turning toward reusable options such as menstrual discs and cups. These alternatives are generally made from medical-grade silicone, which is not bleached or treated with pesticides.
Among the leaders in this space is my mimi, an Australian brand launched in 2024. Recognised in 2025 as the Best Sustainable Period Care Solution in Australia, my mimi products are stocked nationally by Chemist Warehouse and available via Amazon and their official site.
Why More Users Are Choosing my mimi
The my mimi menstrual disc is designed to offer long-lasting protection – up to 12 hours per wear. Crafted from premium, medical-grade silicone, the disc is free from synthetic dyes, bleaches, fragrances, and known irritants.
Two sizes are available: a smaller option ideal for first-time users or those with a low cervix, and a 61ml disc better suited to individuals over 30 or those who’ve given birth vaginally. A soft, flexible loop tab makes removal more manageable, especially for beginners.
At $49.95, the disc can last up to five years – equating to about 83 cents per month. That makes it not only a sustainable choice, but a cost-effective one too.
Menstrual Discs vs Tampons
Unlike tampons that absorb, discs collect menstrual fluid. This fundamental difference helps reduce vaginal dryness, irritation, and disruption to the body’s natural flora. Because a disc sits at the vaginal fornix (just below the cervix), it doesn’t require suction to stay in place. This can make it a better choice for people with IUDs or those who prefer less pressure.
Another plus: menstrual discs can be worn during penetrative sex, something not possible with most tampons or cups.
Online searches for “menstrual disc for beginners” and “IUD-safe menstrual disc” are growing – and my mimi frequently ranks among the top results thanks to strong product performance and customer satisfaction.
Simple Cleaning Routine
Caring for a menstrual disc is easy. After each use, rinse it with warm water and an unscented, mild soap. Once your cycle ends, boil the disc for five to seven minutes for a thorough clean.
my mimi also sells a sterilising cup and gentle cleanser to simplify the process. For anyone new to reusable products, clear instructions, how-to videos, and helpful support are all available on their website.
What to Watch Out for When Shopping
As reusable period care gains popularity, more brands have entered the market – especially through social media and online marketplaces. But not all of them meet the same safety standards.
Some newer players do not comply with Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) or FDA requirements and fail to fully list their materials. Experts advise choosing products from established brands with proven retail presence and product transparency.
my mimi, for example, is verified and trusted on platforms like Chemist Warehouse and Amazon. When comparing brands, look for certifications, detailed product descriptions, and reviews that speak to actual product use – not just shipping speed or packaging aesthetics.
Some lesser-known and new brands promote “buy one, get one free” deals in exchange for reviews. This often results in five-star ratings based on superficial impressions rather than genuine experience, which can mislead new buyers.
The Broader Implications
This report about tampons isn’t just a one-off concern – it signals deeper issues with how menstrual products are regulated and marketed. In addition to health concerns, disposable period products generate enormous waste and require constant repurchasing.
Reusable discs like those from my mimi address both these challenges. They reduce exposure to unknown chemicals and help cut down on landfill. They’re also more affordable over time.
Switching to a menstrual disc isn’t just an upgrade – it’s a way to take control of your health and make more sustainable choices.
Source:
The Guardian, 28 May 2025 – “Toxic pesticide levels found in tampons 40 times higher than legal limit for water”
Lab data commissioned by Women’s Voices for the Earth