Because this is the first study to measure the presence of metals in tampons, more research is needed to discern whether the levels of metal found in tampons can lead to adverse health effects and whether tampon usage can result in any of the health conditions linked to metal absorption.

It’s for this reason that experts say it’s important to look at these findings from a balanced perspective. “It is completely understandable that women may feel anxious upon hearing about the presence of arsenic in tampons, but as these findings are so new, we do not yet know whether the levels of arsenic and other metals found are high enough to imply a significant health risk,” says Dr Amit Shah, a leading gynaecologist and co-founder of the reproductive clinic Fertility Plus. “It’s worth noting, for example, that we are exposed to trace amounts of various metals in our everyday lives through food, water and air, and the body has mechanisms to handle and eliminate small amounts of these substances.”

However, that doesn’t mean the results aren’t cause for concern. Indeed, says Shah, there’s a high chance that manufacturers and regulatory bodies are likely already looking into these findings, and that we’ll see future research into the long-term effects of the identified metals.

A new study has found toxic metals in tampons sold in the UK – how worried should we be?