TikTokers Warn Certain Tampon Ingredient Could Be Affecting Reproductive Health; Experts Weigh In

TikTokers have expressed concern about a particular ingredient that can be found in tampons as it is suspected of triggering various symptoms, including heavy bleeding and ovarian cysts.

Young women, influencers and self-proclaimed experts have been sharing videos with unsubstantiated claims about the health risks of titanium dioxide ever since content creator Rachel Morgan told her followers to be wary of the chemicals on the ingredient list of tampon packs.

Morgan shared in a now-viral TikTok video that she saw another clip featuring a woman who claimed to have experienced health problems and had to undergo cancer screening because her tampons allegedly contained "poisonous" chemicals.

The content creator also mentioned that one of the ingredients listed on the pack of the woman's tampons was titanium dioxide, which is also present in a wide range of products, from sunscreen to Skittles, according to the New York Post.

However, the substance in question is said to be used as a bleaching agent as well. Javon Ford, a cosmetic chemist, posted a TikTok video highlighting the effects of titanium dioxide, as mentioned by a government website, which reportedly noted that "exposure to the compound can cause irritation in the eyes, nose and throat and can cause cancer."

She also said that "such substances may have the potential for causing reproductive damage in humans."

What Do Experts Say?

Although there is no proof that tampons cause reproductive health issues such as ovarian cysts or cancer, environmental and reproductive medical experts are divided on the safety of titanium dioxide in period products.

Dr. Philip M. Tierno, Jr., professor of microbiology and pathology at the New York University School of Medicine, reportedly told Insider that "tampons are especially a problem" because the vaginal lining may allow the chemical to be absorbed into the bloodstream. It is possible because the vaginal mucosa has numerous blood arteries that allow it to absorb the contents of tampons and even cause issues, including toxic shock syndrome.

But not all doctors concur. Dr. Jen Gunter, an OB-GYN, shared her opinion on the ongoing debate in an Instagram video and referred to the current concerns as "fearmongering."

"It is a common myth that tampons increase bleeding, it has been around for over 30 years," she explained. "Tampons hold less blood than a pad and they can leak, so it may seem like it's more. It's not. It's physically and chemically impossible."