FAQ
The Center for Baby and Adult Hygiene Products is the only U.S.-based organization dedicated to advancing the personal absorbent hygiene products industry in North America
Frequently Asked Questions
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All feminine care products are designed for use on the skin. All materials used in the manufacture of pads undergo rigorous evaluation to ensure that they are safe and have a low likelihood to produce a skin reaction.
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If a woman does not have a known sensitivity to perfume and fragrances, it is unlikely that she will be sensitive to the fragrances used in scented feminine hygiene products. There is no known increased risk for reactions among women using scented pads, liners or tampons. However, it is recommended that women who may already have allergies or sensitivities to fragrances and those who prefer fragrance-free products use unscented menstrual products.
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The fragrances used in scented pads, liners and tampons have been thoroughly assessed to assure that they are non-irritating and have a low allergy potential. Years of in-market use found no increased risk of allergic reactions for women using scented pads, liners or tampons. All fragrance materials used in feminine products are researched for safety and comply with the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) safety standards for use in menstrual products. Read more about compliance with IFRA standards and other regulations.
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No. Superabsorbent polymer (SAP) is not used in tampons. The absorbent materials in tampons are cotton and/or rayon, components proven to be safe for use in tampons.
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No, these are not used as ingredients. All materials added to pads, liners and tampons are rigorously evaluated to provide the quality, consistency, and safety.
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The presence of a substance at trace levels means that an extremely minimal amount of a substance could be found in the product. Trace levels of a substance may be present because some substances are known to be found in the environment (air, water, soil, etc.). Trace levels are not ingredients and may only be detectable using highly sensitive measurement techniques or analyses. Certain testing may be capable of detecting the presence of substances in the parts per million (PPM), billion (PPB) or even lesser amounts. To put that into context, one half of a teaspoon in a typical Olympic-sized swimming pool would be the same as 1 PPB. Just because trace levels of a substance may be detected in a product does not necessarily mean that the product is unsafe, nor does it necessarily mean that the trace levels are being absorbed by your body.
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Yes. Rigorous purification of raw materials and cleaning are key priorities of feminine care products and are key steps of the manufacturing process, under Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) conditions. These purification steps are part of removing agricultural residues within these raw materials and ensuring they are hygienic. Current practices for purification utilize processes known as Elemental Chlorine Free or Totally Chlorine Free purification. The purification process removes the fibrous material in wood pulp and the natural oily substances in cotton fibers. Ultimately, this helps create a more effective fiber for use in the product.
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No, there are no dioxins in pads, liners or tampons. The FDA requires the Elemental Chlorine Free or Totally Chlorine Free purification methods used for pads, liners and tampons to be dioxin-free.
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After you remove a feminine care product, wrap it in toilet paper and place it in a sanitary disposal container or waste bin. Tampons, pads and liners should not be flushed down the toilet.
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Have you ever wondered which menstrual product is the “best” product to use while on your period? Well, in reality, the answer to this question could be different for everyone. Among the most common menstrual products are pads, tampons, and menstrual cups. Each of these products works differently and offers its own set of pros and cons. Understanding these differences can help individuals choose which product is the best for them.
Let’s start off with menstrual pads. Pads are external menstrual products that absorb blood outside of the body. They use adhesive strips and wings to help attach to your underwear and stay in place. They also come in a wide variety of sizes and absorbency levels to suit every individual. Pros of pads include their ease to use, especially for beginners as they do not require insertion. Pads are also easy to change and are suitable for use overnight.
Next are tampons, which are cylindrical products that are inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual blood before it leaves the body. Tampons come in a variety of absorbancy levels, and types of applicators. Tampons are discreet and allow for a much greater freedom of movement as compared to pads, making them ideal for sports and swimming. When used correctly, tampons are comfortable and not noticeable.
Finally are menstrual cups, which are flexible cups, that are also reusable. These cups are inserted into the vagina where they collect menstrual blood (as opposed to absorbing it like pads and tampons). Menstrual cups require a clean water source to clean the cups.
In conclusion, pads, tampons and menstrual cups each serve the same purpose, but support different needs and preferences. As for which of these products is the “best?” Well, that depends on what is best for you, and your needs. Consider factors such as comfort, lifestyle, flow, and personal preference when making your choice. In fact, many people find a combination of these three products to be the best for them, such as using tampons during the day, and pads at night. Overall, there is no one “right” answer as it just comes down to the individual.
Written by: Ali Nussbaum