@KNOWITALL I in no way am trying to convince you to use tampons, and am completely fine if you don’t want to. I’m even fine if you feel it’s healthier, but…
Your first link talks about studies without one citation to a study. The article is written by someone who is obviously “natural” oriented. She isn’t medical professionals in any way shape or form, and has not quoted or referenced any medical professionals from what I can tell.
The FDA absolutely regulates medical devices. They pulled Rely tampons from the market when it became evident there were more cases of TSS coming up, and tampons can no longer be made from that material. Here is the FDA link for tampons. https://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/search-fda-guidance-documents/menstrual-tampons-and-pads-information-premarket-notification-submissions-510ks-guidance-industry
As far as bleach and chemicals. Toilet paper and sanitary pads have bleach and chemicals too. Your vulva is mucosal tissue also, so if the pad is creeping up into your vulva at all, you’re still exposed, let alone when we wipe. I honestly am not worried about it, because I feel like the bleach isn’t present in the paper at time of use, but I honestly don’t know if I’m right about that, I’d have to research it. Possibly, we should have some concern about this in general for several products.
As far as plastic, there are cardboard applicators and tampons you can insert with your finger.
Your second link also has zero citations and links. I don’t know what the author is talking about regarding tissue being a problem during menstruation. The lining of the uterus is shed, the tampon is in the vagina. The vagina naturally cleans itself. Even if some tissue was left in the vagina, unlikely, the body would get rid of it with normal secretions, exfoliation, and gravity. She is selling her underwear.