We don't really ever think about what our tampons are made of. We just grab whatever we can and carry on with our week. However if you suffer with PCOS, it can be a good idea to make the switch to organic period products for PCOS. Whilst they aren't a miracle cure, they can be something we can control in our lives, which can be very empowering as so much of our condition can feel out of our control. In this post I will go through what to look for, what to avoid and how this ties in with endometriosis.

What Are Conventional Pads/Tampons Made Of?

Most conventional tampons and pads are not actually 100% cotton. Often there are a mix of rayon, viscose, plastics, glues and even fragrance. Pads often have a layer of polyethylene on the top layer (a type of plastic like that used in your shopping bags). A lot of tampons are bleached to give them that white clean look. Some brands will add fragrance to give them that fresh spring meadow smell. No meadows smell like that!

I'm not trying to alarm you. None of these products have huge amounts of any individual ingredient. However, you are likely to go through thousands of products throughout your years of bleeding. It does add up and therefore people look for cleaner products.

PCOS & Hormones

PCOS is mostly a hormonal, insulin, androgen and ovulation related condition. Researchers have looked into whether certain chemicals such as phthalates and other endocrine disruptors found in plastics and fragrances can cause hormonal issues. However, research is ongoing and no one can honestly say that a pad will cause PCOS. They don't!

However, if you suffer with an overworked endocrine system, it makes sense to try to reduce any unnecessary fragrance and synthetic ingredients. It's a low risk and won't replace medication, dietary changes, sleep, exercise or your doctors plan. It is simply another small piece of the puzzle.

Heavy & Irregular Bleeding

When you suffer with PCOS you may have long periods of no bleeding followed by heavy bleeding for 10 days. Some people experience constant spotting. This means you are using more products more regularly and sometimes at inconvenient times. This means you will want to use products with less contact to your skin.

Absorbency is also important. If you use a highly absorbent tampon for a light day you will get dryness and irritation. If you use a low absorbency tampon for a heavy day you will be changing frequently. It is always good to have a few different absorbencies. You should change your tampons every 4-8 hours regardless of whether they are organic or not. Toxic shock syndrome is rare but real.

How To Read The Packaging

The packaging can be confusing. Natural means very little. Organic means something if the cotton is certified. Try to look for GOTS certified or similarly certified. Look for the words chlorine free/ unbleached, fragrance free and applicator types which don't use virgin plastic.

Look for information on the top layer, whether it has cotton or blended fibres in the centre. Look at the company's website as honest brands will include all the ingredients. If you can't find any information on the materials used then this can tell you something. This is why PCOS friendly organic period products are usually from smaller brands who want you to check the label.

Endometriosis

Many people suffer with both PCOS and endometriosis or have been told they may. Although they are different conditions they do have similarities with daily symptoms. Many people will suffer with pain, heavy bleeding and fatigue. This means the question of what are the best organic tampons for endometriosis is often asked.

Honestly there isn't one correct answer. Generally you want soft, fragrance free tampons made from certified organic cotton. You will also want smaller sizes as pressure and friction can cause pain when you are inflamed. Some people prefer tampons with no applicator or a small cardboard applicator. Some people find inserting anything causes discomfort during a flare so they will swap to pads for a few days. This is fine.

Pads, Cups, Discs & Period Underwear

Tampons aren't the only option. Organic cotton pads with no wings (full of glue and plastic) are a great option. They are gentle and easy to use. Menstrual cups and discs are great as they can hold more. However, they are not for everyone and can take a bit of getting used to. Period underwear are great to use as a backup or for spotting days.

Often people will use a combination of products. Maybe tampons during the working week, pads overnight and underwear when their cycle is being awkward. Many people with PCOS/endo will have a small box of tools to use. Start small and don't completely change your products in one weekend. It can be costly and stressful.

Cost

Organic products can be more expensive but there are a few things you can do. Try buying one box of one type and see how they work for you over a full cycle. If the brand offers a subscription service, look into that. If you have a long and irregular cycle then you may actually be using less products per month than someone with a regular 28 day cycle.

Keep notes on how you are feeling. Notes on your phone are fine. How was your skin? Any itching or dryness? Any unusual discharge? If you are getting any issues stop using the product and speak to your doctor. Your body will tell you.

Conclusion

Don't overcomplicate things! PCOS can be tiring enough. Use cleaner products, fragrance free, certified organic cotton and the right absorbency. If you're looking for PCOS friendly organic period products or the best organic tampons for endometriosis (as you may suffer from both) you want to reduce irritation. Talk to your healthcare provider about your symptoms as no product can replace proper care.

FAQs

What are the best organic period products for PCOS?

Certified organic cotton pads and tampons. Fragrance free, chlorine free with no plastic heavy tops. Menstrual cups, discs and period underwear can be used.

Can period products worsen PCOS symptoms?

No they don't cause PCOS. Research is ongoing into chemicals and hormones but fragrance and synthetic products can irritate sensitive skin. Choosing cleaner products is a sensible low risk option.

What are the best organic tampons for endometriosis?

Soft, fragrance free tampons made from organic cotton. Smaller sizes. Comfort is key so if tampons cause pain during a flare then swapping to pads for a few days is completely fine.

Are organic tampons safer?

They are free from certain synthetic ingredients, bleach and fragrance however they can still cause toxic shock syndrome. Change them every 4-8 hours and use the lowest absorbency possible.

How do I know if a product is truly organic?

Look for GOTS or similar certifications. Check the full list of ingredients/materials. Natural or pure won't mean much.

Should I speak to my doctor?

Yes. If you are suffering with pain, heavy bleeding or constant irritation. Changing products is generally easy but your symptoms should be properly looked after by a medical professional.