Tampon Code of Practice : an essential tool in manufacturing and distributing tampons

This code of practice, coordinated by EDANA for the European market and in use since 1999, outlines minimum standards for tampon production, labelling, and usage instructions. The document is subject to revisions, with the latest update in 2023.

It is intended for producers and distributors of tampons and is also available to national authorities. Tampon manufacturers in Europe, represented by EDANA's Absorbent hygiene products working group, follow this code.

It addresses aspects like tampon construction, methods of insertion, absorbency measurement using the Syngina protocol, and labelling requirements using a droplet system.

Crucially, it mandates clear information regarding Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), including symptoms and risk reduction, on packaging and in accompanying leaflets, and provides specific guidance for tampons dispensed from vending machines.

Summary of the key sections of the Tampon Code of Practice:

Section 1 : provides technical information on the construction and usage of tampons

Tampon construction: 
The two main European designs are described with visuals:

• the radially wound pledget (rolled like a 'Swiss roll', expanding primarily widthways/radially)

• the rectangular/square pad (compressed, expanding predominantly longitudinally)

Both are typically made from cotton or viscose rayon fibers or a mixture and include a withdrawal cord for removal. Some brands may have an additional nonwoven layer or coverstock to assist insertion. All tampons are wrapped for instance in paper or cellophane or polypropylene to ensure that the hygienic quality of the products is maintained

Tampon usage: 
The two methods for presenting the tampon to the user are explained: 

• Digital or non-applicator (inserted manually)

• Applicator (inserted using a two-tube device, potentially compact and requiring assembly)

Applicators may be made from coated cardboard or plastics like polyethylene.

Section 2 : details various requirements of the code

1. Health-related information for tampon packs:
   Each tampon pack must include labelling which contains important information regarding menstrual toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare but serious illness. The notice should advise the user to read and save the written information (see Annex 1). The information should be clear and legible and in the language of the country of sale.
   
   
2. Instructions for Tampon Usage: 
   Each pack of tampon through labelling must provide with clear advice and guidance on the correct use of tampons (see Annex 1).
   
   

3. Measurement of tampon absorbency:
   The absorbency of tampons produced by the European tampon industry should be measured using the “Syngina” protocol. This has been published as an EDANA Agreed Test Method and is available from the Association. Manufacturers are responsible for developing appropriate sampling plans and statistical protocols to demonstrate compliance to the absorbency system (see Annex 2).
   
   

4. Absorbency Labelling:
   Sales packaging of tampons must be labelled with the appropriate number of droplets denoting the range of absorbency (see Annex 2).
   
   

5. Consumer education:
   The industry commits to continuing to provide relevant information on TSS to raise consumer awareness and will reference the absorbency labelling
   system in educational material.
   
   

6. Regulation and product safety:
   Manufacturers agree to meet their obligations under the European General Product Safety Regulation.
   
   

7. Disposal:
   Manufacturers shall provide appropriate disposal advice.