Pictures and videos circulating on social media show brand‑new, sealed sanitary pads held up to light with dark, splotchy areas that look like mold. That has prompted questions about whether unused period products can be contaminated and whether they pose health risks.
What experts say
Health professionals who examined these images say the discoloration is more likely to result from materials or storage conditions than from widespread mold contamination. Monica Williams, MD, a physician and co‑founder of a puberty care brand, said the dark discoloration could be consistent with mold in an isolated, mishandled product, but it could also reflect exposure to moisture, heat, or damage in transit rather than a manufacturing-wide issue. Deborah Lee, a UK GP specializing in sexual and reproductive health, noted that some commonly used materials can look dark and splotchy when held to bright light.
Possible causes of dark spots
– Superabsorbent polymers (SAP): SAPs in the absorbent core are 3D hydrophilic materials that absorb and retain liquids and can reflect and absorb light in ways that make the pad look darker in places when backlit.
– Normal components and construction: Absorbent pulp fibers, adhesive strips, release paper, backing film irregularities, dyes, or recycled fibers can appear unusual under intense light and may be mistaken for contamination.
– Storage or damage: If packaging is opened, stored in a damp place, or damaged, organic materials could degrade or, rarely, allow microbial growth.
What research shows
Direct research on unused pads is limited, but available studies suggest low overall risk for properly sealed products. A 2018 study looked at unused tampons and detected some microbes in certain samples; a 2021 study in Nigeria found contamination when packages were left open or improperly stored; and a 2023 study reported bacterial and fungal isolates in some market samples. These findings support the idea that improper storage or handling—not sealed, factory‑made products—are the main risk factors.
How pads are made and stored
Menstrual products are typically manufactured on automated lines from materials with established safety profiles. Layers are assembled and the finished products are folded and sealed in individual wrappers. Factories that supply regulated device components usually follow quality control and hygienic practices; finished goods are stored in dry, climate‑controlled warehouses and routinely tested for absorbency and integrity. Regulatory requirements vary by product and location, but manufacturers generally design processes to limit contamination.
Health risks if mold were present
If mold were present on a pad, likely effects would generally be limited to skin irritation, contact dermatitis, or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. People with weakened immune systems could be at higher risk for more serious infections from environmental molds, though such cases are rare. The vaginal area also has its own microbiome, including bacteria and fungi (such as Candida). Introducing outside microbes could in theory disturb that balance, potentially increasing the chance of irritation or yeast overgrowth. Changing pads regularly—every 4–8 hours, or more often with heavy flow—helps minimize exposure to contaminants and maintain hygiene.
What to do if you’re concerned
Practical steps to reduce any risk and to check products:
– Choose reputable brands and look for a visible lot or production code, which indicates batch tracking.
– Buy products that are individually wrapped and sealed; avoid packages that look damaged.
– Store period products in a cool, dry place away from bathrooms or other damp areas prone to steam.
– Inspect the packaging and the item before use; if you see visible mold, moisture damage, or torn packaging, stop using the product and contact the manufacturer.
– If you develop irritation, itching, unusual discharge, or other symptoms after using a product, discontinue use and seek medical advice.
Bottom line
While images of dark spots inside unused pads on social media are understandably alarming, experts say most discoloration is likely due to normal materials (like SAP and fibers) or to isolated storage and handling issues rather than widespread mold contamination. Proper manufacturing, sealed packaging, and correct storage make unused period products unlikely to contain mold. If you find obvious mold or damage in a product, do not use it and inform the manufacturer.
