Is the menstrual sponge dangerous? The 6 biggest myths

“Wait, a kitchen sponge as a tampon?"
"That’s disgusting and totally unhygienic.”

Such comments regularly appear under our social media posts.

Therefore, in this article we debunk the 6 biggest myths and explain to you:

when a menstrual sponge is safe and when it is not,
what distinguishes high-quality sponges from inferior ones
and how the natural sponges at HERA Organics are harvested and processed before they end up in your home.

Facts for those in a hurry

A high-quality, natural menstrual sponge is hygienically safe when used correctly.
The sponge naturally has antibacterial properties.
The EU has clear requirements and laws for manufacturers
You should change the sponge regularly, clean it thoroughly, and avoid using it in case of infections, inflammation, or during the postpartum period.

A natural sponge as a period companion: What's behind it?

There are two main types of sponges: natural and industrially treated.

Natural sponges are free of chemical additives and therefore particularly well-tolerated. It's important to pay attention to their origin and processing – as this determines how safe the product really is.

A natural sponge consists of a fine-pored natural material that grows in the sea. It is inserted similarly to a tampon, reliably absorbs menstrual blood, and can be reused multiple times.

Compared to tampons or menstrual cups, a sponge is particularly soft and flexible, and many women find it barely noticeable when wearing it.

The biggest myths about menstrual sponges

Myth 1: "Menstrual sponges are unhygienic"

In Europe, menstrual products such as sponges, tampons or cups fall under general consumer product law – more precisely under the EU Regulation on Product Safety (GPSR, 2023/988).

This means that manufacturers must ensure their products are safe for health, provide clear instructions for use, and enable traceability.

In Germany, the Product Safety Act (ProdSG) also regulates manufacturers' obligations.

For menstrual sponges, this means specifically:

The sponges must be natural and free of chemicals.
Manufacturer's address, product name and batch number must be clearly marked.
Quality assurance must be ensured through cleaning, testing, and their documentation.

At HERA, the sponges are regularly tested in independent laboratories – for example, for germs that can cause infections. This ensures that the products are hygienic and safe.

Sources & further information
EU Regulation on Product Safety (GPSR, 2023/988):

Product Safety Act (ProdSG, Germany):

FDA guideline on menstrual sponges (USA):

A menstrual sponge is NOT a kitchen sponge

Why a menstrual sponge has nothing to do with a kitchen sponge

Kitchen sponges are made of plastic, come into daily contact with food residues and grease, often remain permanently damp and are rarely replaced in time.

This is the perfect playground for bacteria.

This has nothing to do with a natural sea sponge.

Menstrual sponges consist of a natural fibrous structure (spongin), to which bacteria have more difficulty adhering than to smooth plastic surfaces.
Its porous structure allows it to dry completely and quickly after use.

Without constant moisture, bacteria lack the ideal breeding ground.
The material itself hardly promotes biofilm formation, such as that which often occurs on synthetic fibers, for example on tampons and household sponges.

Important: A natural sponge is not "sterile by itself" – but the material is naturally much less bacteria-friendly than many synthetic alternatives.
It becomes hygienically safe through the combination of material and correct cleaning.

Myth 2: "The sponge is dirty because it comes from the sea"

Of the more than 10,000 known species of marine sponges worldwide, only a few are suitable as menstrual sponges.

At HERA, we rely on a particularly fine-pored sponge species from the Mediterranean Sea that grows at a depth of 30–40 meters – where the water is clear and clean.

Our sponges are thoroughly cleaned before they reach you. The harvested sponges are mechanically cleaned of sand and residues in Greece, without any chemical additives or bleach.

Myth 3: "I put a sea creature in my vagina"

Menstrual sponges are ancient, multicellular marine organisms. They are among the oldest life forms in the world, but they have no nervous system, no heart, and no brain.

Therefore, they are not animals.

Nevertheless, they are highly functional: their fine pore structure makes them particularly absorbent, flexible and soft.

Myth 4: "The sponge disintegrates or crumbles inside the body"

A high-quality natural sponge for the intimate area:

is elastic
can be expressed without tearing,
and doesn't just crumble apart.

You should not use crumbly, noticeably hard, or strongly smelling sponges – regardless of whether they are sold as "natural sponges" or not.

Our sponges are sorted, cut, and inspected by hand. Only the finest-pored and softest specimens make it to your home.

Myth 5: "Using a menstrual sponge increases your risk of infections or TSS."

Natural sponges contain antibacterial enzymes and are therefore less susceptible to germs and bacteria than other menstrual products. And because the sponge doesn't dry out the mucous membranes, the natural balance is better maintained.

As with all imported menstrual products, the risk depends not only on the product itself, but primarily on how it is used.

Things you should pay attention to:

Do not wear the sponge for longer than 6-8 hours.
Do not use imported products if you have an infection, inflammation, or are in the postpartum period.
Clean the sponge regularly and thoroughly, and then let it dry completely.
If you experience unexplained symptoms (burning, itching, discharge), consult your gynecologist.

Myth 6: "The menstrual sponge can get lost inside the body"

A menstrual sponge can move upwards in the vaginal canal – especially if you move around a lot or have a very active pelvic floor. However, it cannot get lost.

Our tips if you can't find the sponge right away:

Breathe calmly to relax your pelvic floor.
Go into a squat or put one leg up.
Feel with your fingers – often the sponge will slide down a bit if you cough or strain briefly.

If you're unsure, you can start by using a sponge with a retrieval string. With a little practice, you'll get a good feel for how to best insert and remove it.

How to use a menstrual sponge safely

Using a natural sponge is surprisingly easy and becomes more familiar with each cycle.

Here's what you should pay attention to when using it:

Step 1: Before first use, soak the sponge in warm water with a cleaning stick.

Step 2: Moisten the sponge under water before inserting it and squeeze it out lightly – this will make it particularly soft.

Step 3: Change the sponge every 3-8 hours during your period, then rinse it and reinsert it.

Step 4: After your period, thoroughly clean the sponge again, let it dry completely, and store it in a well-ventilated place until your next period.

Having a travel case is especially handy when you're out and about. Changing the sponge is easy: simply store the used sponge in the case and clean it thoroughly at home. This way, you're always flexible and well-equipped, even when you're on the go.

Everything you need is included in the HERA starter set: three sponges in your desired size, cleaning tablets, a breathable bag and a to-go case.

→ To the HERA Starter Set

When you should avoid using a menstrual sponge

Even though a menstrual sponge is generally well tolerated, there are situations where it's better to do without it:

✓ For vaginal infections, inflammation or yeast infections
✓ During the postpartum period or directly after gynecological procedures
✓ For unexplained symptoms such as burning, itching or discharge

If you have any pre-existing health conditions, it's best to talk to your gynecologist about this.

When in doubt, always get it checked out by a doctor.

Conclusion: A menstrual sponge is not inherently dangerous.

The quality of the sponge, its origin and processing, and how you use the sponge are crucial.

If you use a natural, well-cleaned sponge, change it regularly and clean it carefully, you can use the menstrual sponge without hesitation.

Our customers repeatedly report that they find their period less bothersome, hardly feel the sponge when wearing it, and appreciate producing less waste.

Are you curious about our menstrual sponges?

With the HERA starter set you have everything you need to get started safely and easily.

→ Discover the starter set now

Disclaimer: If allergic reactions such as redness, itching, swelling or skin irritation occur when using a menstrual sponge, it is advisable to remove the sponge immediately and consult a specialist or allergist.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about menstrual sponges

How do I clean my menstrual sponge properly?

During your period, plain water is sufficient. Before and after your cycle, you should thoroughly clean it with a cleaning tablet, let it dry well, and store it in a well-ventilated place.

How often should I change the sponge?

Depending on the heaviness of your flow, change every 3 to 6 hours. Ideally, use several sponges alternately so you always have a fresh one available.

How can I recognize a high-quality natural sponge?

It is natural, soft, odorless, and free of bleach or additives. Look for sustainable sourcing and transparent suppliers.

How do I recognize a vaginal infection?

If you experience symptoms such as unusual discharge, odor, or itching, it is advisable to consult a specialist or gynecologist. An accurate diagnosis is important to determine the cause of the symptoms and to initiate appropriate treatment.

Can menstrual sponges cause allergies?

The cause of allergic reactions by menstrual sponges is a topic that has not yet been comprehensively researched scientifically.
To date, there are no scientific studies that specifically point to allergic reactions in connection with the use of natural sponges.

About the author

Florence is responsible for the blog, social media, and newsletter at HERA Organics. She writes about body-friendly intimate hygiene, sustainable period products, and everything that makes the menstrual cycle more natural – honestly, clearly, and without taboos.

More about HERA Organics →

Cart

Are menstrual sponges dangerous? We debunk the 6 biggest myths about period sponges.