A new report released on Menstrual Hygiene Day (28 May 2025) has sent shockwaves through the menstrual health community, revealing that tampons sold across UK high streets contain dangerously high levels of toxic pesticides — with some brands exceeding legal drinking water limits by up to 40 times.
The report, published by WEN (Women’s Environmental Network), PAN UK, and the Pesticide Collaboration, tested 15 mainstream tampon brands, all of which were found to contain pesticide traces. Among the most alarming findings was the detection of chlorpyrifos — a pesticide banned in the UK and EU for its neurotoxic effects — and glyphosate, a widely used herbicide classified as a probable carcinogen, found at levels 40 times higher than allowed in drinking water.
Health experts warn these substances are linked to a range of serious conditions including cancer, Parkinson’s disease, and hormonal, reproductive and immune system disorders.
Ruby Raut, Founder and CEO of sustainable period underwear brand WUKA, is calling for urgent industry reform.
“It’s outrageous that in 2025, we’re still finding pesticides and chemicals linked to serious health conditions in period products. The vagina is one of the most absorbent parts of the body — chemicals absorbed here bypass the body’s detox systems and go straight into the bloodstream, unlike when ingested through food or water. This isn’t just irresponsible, it’s dangerous!”
The findings underscore a troubling lack of regulation and transparency in the menstrual products industry, despite the fact that these items are used by millions of people every month.
WUKA — which stands for Wake Up Kick Ass — was founded to offer a safe, reusable alternative to conventional period products. Its range of period underwear is:
- 100% reusable
- Free from harmful chemicals, PFAS, lead and arsenic
- Independently tested and certified toxin-free
- Designed for both comfort and safety
Raut continued, “From day one, WUKA has committed to creating period products that are not only effective, but safe – free from any toxins or chemicals, including pesticides, PFA’s, lead or arsenic. It is simply unacceptable that in this day and age, we still don’t know what is inside the products we use in our most intimate areas of our bodies. We need transparency. We need accountability. And we need real reform in this industry — because everyone who menstruates deserves better.”
This latest report follows a 2024 pilot study that found toxic metals including lead (up to 19ppm) and arsenic (8ppm) in tampons from 14 major brands — substances linked to long-term neurological and reproductive harm.
WUKA is urging consumers to scrutinise the ingredients in their period products and make informed, health-conscious choices.
For more information or to explore WUKA’s certified toxin-free alternatives, visit www.wuka.co.uk.
