Dioxin is a known carcinogen that is linked to endometriosis and ovarian, cervical and breast cancers, among other things. Rayon is commonly used by tampon manufactures because it has super-absorbent characteristics, the same characteristic that causes health problems. Due to its super-absorbency, some of the fibers tend to get left behind by sticking to the vaginal walls. While these health risks are far greater for tampon users than pad users, dioxin and rayon are both present in pads as well. There has been many a conversation about creating a menstrual hut at Dancing Rabbit, a sacred space where womyn can go to bleed freely.
Menstrual huts are common in many native traditions.
Womyn were often required by their culture to seclude themselves during their period and the menstrual hut was a place that they would retreat to. Whether or not it was meant to be a positive experience is up for debate. This is among the more radical options that I have had the experience of contemplating. I am so pleased with the mere existence of this device. It's a menstrual cup that sits inside the vaginal canal and catches menstrual fluid with the help of a little gentle suction.