How safe are our period products, really? 

Charlie speaks with campaigner Helen Lynn from the Women’s Environmental Network (WEN) about new findings that detected glyphosate and other concerning chemicals in mainstream tampons and pads — products placed against one of the body’s most absorbent tissues. We unpack why period products are barely regulated, how plastics, fragrances and “antimicrobial” additives creep in, and the real-world health implications of endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Helen offers a clear hierarchy of safer options (from certified-organic disposables to cups, discs, pants and reusable pads), plus practical advice for school education, tackling stigma, and reducing waste and cost. We also touch on period poverty, environmental justice, and why women and marginalised communities are disproportionately affected — along with smart ways to push for better policy and industry change. Small swaps add up; informed voices change systems.

Guest: Helen Lynn — Women’s Environmental Network (WEN)

Topics

• What recent testing found in period products and why it matters
• The regulation gap (general product safety vs cosmetics-style prohibitions)
• Hidden ingredients: plastics, rayon, fragrances, PFAS, “antimicrobial” finishes
• Absorption via vaginal tissue and why location of use is critical
• A practical hierarchy of safer choices (reusables and certified-organic disposables)
• Period poverty, cost over a lifetime, and waste reduction
• Education, stigma, and how behaviours shift (e.g., at university)
• Environmental justice: who is most exposed, who is least heard
• How to get involved: consumer choices, community action, policy change

Practical swaps (start here)

• Prefer certified-organic tampons/pads for single-use
• If reusable:
  • Menstrual cups/discs: medical-grade silicone, no additives
  • Period pants: avoid “anti-odour/antimicrobial” claims; choose plain fabrics
  • Reusable pads: undyed natural fibres; wash-care extends life
• Reduce fragranced products across the home and body
• Never flush pads/tampons; bin to prevent blockages/fatbergs

Calls to action

• Support campaigns for a Menstrual Health, Dignity & Sustainability Act
• Ask brands for full ingredient transparency and PFAS-free lines
• Share this episode with a parent, teacher or youth worker

Resources mentioned

• Women’s Environmental Network (WEN) — campaigns, school workshops, reports
• Pesticide Action Network (PAN) — pesticide policy and research
• Menzie Project —

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