Microplastics are everywhere - in the oceans, in our soil, in the food we eat and in the air we breathe. But perhaps most disturbing of all is the growing evidence that they’re also inside us. These invisible plastic fragments are infiltrating the human body in ways scientists are only beginning to understand, and for women and people with periods, the risks could be even more serious due to the materials used in many traditional period products.
At POM (Peace of Mind), we create safe, sustainable period care designed to protect your body and the planet. This blog takes a closer look at how microplastics get into our systems, the unique risks they pose to female bodies, and why it’s time to ditch plastic-laden period products for good.
WHAT ARE MICROPLASTICS?
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than 5mm in size, often created when larger plastics break down in the environment. They're found in everything from bottled water and seafood to synthetic clothing and household dust. Alarmingly, the average adult may consume between 39,000 to 52,000 microplastic particles per year through food and beverages alone, according to a landmark 2019 study published in Environmental Science & Technology (Cox et al., 2019).
Babies and small children may be exposed to even higher levels due to plastic feeding bottles, dummies, and toys (Li et al., 2020; Nature Food), with research showing up to 1.6 million microplastic particles per day can be released during bottle preparation.
MICROPLASTICS IN THE HUMAN BODY: A GROWING CONCERN
Once microplastics enter the body, whether through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact, they can travel to various organs. Studies have found microplastics in the lungs, liver, kidneys, blood, and even the placenta (Ragusa et al., 2021; Jenner et al., 2022).
Recently, researchers and colorectal surgeons from Monash University and Cabrini Health in Melbourne published a sobering summary in the ANZ Journal of Surgery, highlighting the possible link between microplastics and early-onset colorectal cancer. Dr Vignesh Narasimhan, a senior colorectal surgeon, noted:
“We’re seeing more young patients with rectal and distal colon cancer, often without the usual risk factors. This motivated us to explore whether microplastics could contribute in some way.”
While microplastics are still being studied, they are increasingly suspected to cause or worsen inflammation, disrupt hormone function (as endocrine disruptors), and possibly even contribute to tumour growth in the gut.
THE LINK TO PERIOD PRODUCTS
What many people don’t realise is that single-use period products - like conventional tampons and pads - are often significant sources of microplastic exposure.
- Many tampons are made with synthetic fibres (such as rayon or polyester) and are coated or bleached for a cleaner appearance.
- Pads contain up to 90% plastic when you account for the top sheet, back layer, and absorbent core (Women’s Environmental Network, 2018).
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During use, tampons can shed microplastic fibres internally, directly into the vaginal canal - a part of the body known for its high permeability and rich blood supply.
This is especially concerning because vaginal tissue offers a direct route into the bloodstream, bypassing many of the body's natural detox mechanisms (Anderson et al., Environmental Health Perspectives, 2016). Once microplastics are inside, they may contribute to hormonal imbalances, inflammation, and unknown long-term health effects.
WHY THIS IS A GENDERED HEALTH ISSUE
Because of menstruation, people with periods are exposed to far more intimate-contact products than those without. It’s estimated that an average person will use more than 11,000 disposable period products over their lifetime. This adds up to a massive cumulative exposure, especially if those products are made with or release plastic.
And unlike microplastics in food or air, exposure from internal-use products is direct, unfiltered, and sustained.
WHAT YOU CAN DO: CHOOSE SAFER, PLASTIC-FREE PERIOD CARE
At POM, we believe your period care should give you peace of mind, not hidden risks. Our entire range is designed to be completely free from microplastics and toxic chemicals:
- POM Period Underwear is made from GOTS-certified organic cotton and bamboo, which are gentle, naturally absorbent, and biodegradable. No synthetics. No plastic fibres.
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POM Menstrual Cups are made from 100% medical-grade silicone, which is inert, non-toxic, and free from microplastics.
Our products are designed to protect your body and reduce your environmental footprint. One menstrual cup can replace over 2,000 disposable products, while our reusable underwear eliminates the need for plastic-based pads altogether.
PEACE OF MIND, PERIOD.
The rise of microplastics in the human body is a public health issue we can’t afford to ignore, especially when it comes to something as personal and intimate as period care. By choosing POM, you’re making a powerful choice for your health, your body, and the environment.
Say goodbye to hidden plastics. Choose Peace of Mind.
References
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Cox, K.D., et al. (2019). Human Consumption of Microplastics. Environmental Science & Technology, 53(12), 7068–7074. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.9b01517
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Li, D., et al. (2020). Microplastic release from the degradation of polypropylene feeding bottles during infant formula preparation. Nature Food, 1, 746–754. https://doi.org/10.1038/s43016-020-00171-y
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Ragusa, A., et al. (2021). Plasticenta: First evidence of microplastics in human placenta. Environment International, 146, 106274. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envint.2020.106274
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Jenner, L.C., et al. (2022). Detection of microplastics in human blood. Environment International, 163, 107199. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envint.2022.107199
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Anderson, S.E., et al. (2016). In vitro evaluation of vaginal epithelial permeability. Environmental Health Perspectives, 124(5), 667–673. https://doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1510179
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Women’s Environmental Network (WEN). (2018). Seeing Red: Periods and Environmental Pollution. https://www.wen.org.uk
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Narasimhan, V., et al. (2024). Early-onset colorectal cancer and environmental exposures: could microplastics be contributing? ANZ Journal of Surgery. Summary reported in Nine Media (2024).