London, October 2025 - On the shelves of a supermarket chain in London, tampons and menstrual cups occupy the "C position" in the menstrual products area, while traditional sanitary napkins are squeezed into the corner. This scene reflects the "menstrual revolution" that has quietly taken place in the European and American markets in recent years - built-in products have gradually become mainstream, but controversy has also followed.

 

According to the latest report from market research firm Global Market Insights, the penetration rate of tampons in Europe in 2025 has reached 68%, while that in the United States has exceeded 72%. The younger generation has become the main force driving change. Anna, a 22-year-old German student, said: "Tampons allow me to be more free when swimming and exercising, and menstrual cups can be reused, which is both environmentally friendly and saves money."

 

However, this change has not been smooth sailing. Earlier this year, a popular tampon brand was sued for failing to clearly label the risk warning of "toxic shock syndrome (TSS)". TSS is a rare but potentially fatal bacterial infection associated with prolonged use of tampons. According to data from the US FDA, 73% of TSS cases reported in the United States in 2024 were related to improper use of tampons. "Manufacturers must strengthen safety education instead of hiding risks in packaging." Kate Wilson, head of the consumer rights organization "Safe Choice", emphasized.

 

On the other hand, the menstrual cup that focuses on "zero waste" is rewriting the market pattern. The foldable silicone cup launched by the Swedish brand Intimina has become a hit, and its official website claims that "1 cup = saving 2,000 sanitary napkins." However, on social media, complaints about "inconvenience in cleaning" and "embarrassment in changing in public places" are endless.

 

"It took me half an hour to put it in the right position when I used it for the first time." Emily, a 28-year-old French blogger, admitted in the video. Although the brand has launched matching disinfectant wipes and storage bags, some consumers still believe that the "learning cost" of menstrual cups is over-beautified. "It is suitable for people who pursue environmental protection, but it is by no means a 'perfect solution' for everyone." Marina Perez, a gynecologist in London, pointed out.

 

Behind the controversy, the struggle between policy and market gradually emerges. The EU recently plans to include menstrual cups in the regulatory scope of "reusable medical devices" and require manufacturers to provide clinical safety data. This proposal has been protested by small and medium-sized enterprises: "Testing costs will stifle innovation!" At the same time, Italy and other countries have begun to provide tampons for free in schools, but have been criticized by conservative groups for "encouraging teenagers to have sex too early."

 

Despite the constant controversy, capital is still accelerating its entry. Old companies are not to be outdone: Tampax, a subsidiary of Procter & Gamble, has launched biodegradable tampons, while the startup DivaCup has cooperated with gyms to provide menstrual cup disinfection stations in locker rooms. "This change is about technology, but more about culture." Lucy Green, a researcher at the British Menstrual Health Alliance, concluded, "No matter what product they choose, women should have a safe and burden-free choice."

 

At present, the "silent war" on the shelves of European and American supermarkets continues-behind every box of tampons and menstrual cups is a complex game about health, environmental protection and freedom.

 

Feel free to contact us to learn more about Baby Pull Up Pants Diapers, baby diapers, Sanitary Pads, Panty Liners products. Leave us a message and we will get back to you as soon as possible!