Feminine Hygiene

Disposable feminine hygiene products fall into two main categories: internal protection (tampons) and external protection (pads and pant liners.)

PADS AND LINERS

Pads and pant liners are available in a wide range of styles and absorbencies. Pads are designed for use during menstruation. Pant liners are designed for daily use or to give added protection when used in combination with a tampon, or for very light flow at the beginning or end of a menstrual period.

Pads and pant liners have a surface cover designed to provide comfort and keep the skin dry and clean. There is an absorbent core with or without superabsorbent polymer (SAP) to absorb and lock in fluid. There is a waterproof backsheet typically with adhesive for attachment to the underwear.

Both pads and liners may have other design features such as layers coloured by inks, pigments or dyes used in small amounts to assist in the identification of components, for ease of use and to make the products more appealing to use. They may be fragranced (generally indicated on the pack) and some pads may contain some odour-absorbing ingredients.

EXAMPLES OF MATERIAL COMPONENTS

TAMPONS

There are two main types of tampon; those with and those without an applicator. Most women tend to prefer one type and will seldom switch between the two.

Tampons are made from viscose/rayon, a blend of viscose/rayon with cotton, or all cotton fibres (either organic or non-organic cotton.) They provide discreet protection and enable women greater freedom in terms of clothing and activities during their period. Tampons can be used by anyone once they have begun menstruation, although typically younger girls will prefer to use pads.

AHPMA members stringently adhere to the UK Voluntary Code of Practice for Tampon Manufacturers and Distributors, which ensures a consistent approach to product labelling and to consumer information on safety and correct use. The Code of Practice is available for use by any producer of any tampon or menstrual device and is recognised by UK Government departments and retailers. Note: there is a separate EU tampon code of practice for products sold within the EU but outside of the UK market. Different parts of the world may have other codes of practice and other national regulations may apply.

View the UK Code of Practice for Tampon Manufacturers and Distributors.

In the UK feminine hygiene products are regulated and produced according to the General Product Safety Regulations 2005: Click here to view.

EXAMPLES OF MATERIAL COMPONENTS

APPLICATORS

EXAMPLES OF MATERIAL COMPONENTS

TOXIC SHOCK SYNDROME

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is a very rare form of blood poisoning which can affect anyone, male or female, and of any age. TSS can follow localised infections resulting for example from burns, scalds, wounds, surgical procedures and even chicken pox spots and has also been linked to menstruation and tampon use. It is estimated that approximately half the cases of TSS, are linked to use of tampons. The causal link to tampons and menstruation is not known, but users of any type of tampon irrespective of its composition, for example viscose/rayon, cotton, organic cotton or a blend, should be equally aware of the signs and symptoms of TSS. TSS cases have also been recorded with other vaginal devices such as contraceptive coils, diaphragms and menstrual cups. Anyone who suspects they, or someone they know, is suffering from the symptoms of TSS should immediately seek medical attention. If using a tampon, remove it immediately and inform the doctor that you are menstruating and have been using tampons. TSS is treated easily in the early stages but can rapidly become very serious if left untreated. Further information can be found at www.tssis.com