The Presence of Toxic Chemicals in Reusable Women’s Hygiene Products
A recent study has revealed that reusable women’s hygiene products, including period underwear and menstrual cups, may contain toxic chemicals known as PFAS. These substances, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” have raised concerns about their potential impact on health, especially for women who use these eco-friendly alternatives.
The research, published in Environmental Science and Technology Letters, examined 59 products from five categories: period underwear, reusable pads, reusable incontinence underwear, reusable incontinence pads, and menstrual cups. Scientists tested the total fluorine content in these items, which can indicate the presence of PFAS. They then conducted a more detailed analysis on a subset of 19 products, looking at specific PFAS levels.
PFAS were detected in 100% of the smaller sample, with nearly 30% of the full group showing evidence of intentionally added PFAS. Period underwear and reusable pads had the highest rates of intentional PFAS addition. Marta Venier, one of the study’s authors and an environmental chemist at Indiana University, explained that the distinction between intentional and unintentional PFAS presence depends on the amount of total fluorine detected. When levels exceed a certain threshold, it suggests that PFAS were added to the product to provide properties like waterproofing.
However, the study also found that not all products contained intentionally added PFAS. This indicates that it is possible to manufacture these items without using PFAS, highlighting that they are not essential for functionality.
Health Risks of PFAS Exposure
PFAS include over 10,000 substances, making it challenging to determine the exact health effects of each. Despite this, there is strong scientific evidence linking exposure to adverse health outcomes. In 2023, the World Health Organization classified two PFAS—perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS)—as carcinogenic or possibly carcinogenic to humans. These substances have been banned in the European Union.
Exposure to PFAS can lead to various health issues, including damage to the immune system, high cholesterol, altered liver enzymes, kidney cancer, and reproductive problems. Tina Kold Jensen, a physician and environmental epidemiologist at the University of Southern Denmark, noted that PFAS can accumulate in the body over time. She explained that exposure through hygiene products can last for at least four years before half of the substance is eliminated. Women of reproductive age may pass these chemicals to their children through the placenta and breast milk.
Jensen also pointed out that the direct contact of pads with the skin could pose different risks compared to environmental exposure. While the skin acts as a good barrier, the vaginal area presents unique considerations. Additionally, washing reusable products can release PFAS into the environment, raising further concerns.
Reusable Menstrual Products and Their Safety
Reusable menstrual products have gained popularity, particularly among younger generations. A 2022 study showed that in Spain, the use of reusable hygiene products surpassed disposable ones among people aged 26 to 35. Initiatives such as offering free menstrual cups, period underwear, and cloth pads aim to reduce both period poverty and environmental waste.
These products are considered more sustainable than single-use items, with menstrual cups having the lowest environmental impact, followed by period underwear and reusable pads. According to a global review, reusable menstrual pads do not pose significant health threats, aside from occasional skin irritation due to long-term use or improper cleaning.
Menstrual cups are generally safe, with rare cases of vaginal injuries, toxic shock syndrome, or urinary issues reported. However, period underwear has faced scrutiny over the presence of PFAS and other elements. A 2023 investigation by the UK-based organization Which? found high levels of silver in some popular brands. Thinx, in particular, faced a class-action lawsuit after PFAS were found in its products.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Research
PFAS are not exclusive to reusable products; they have also been found in disposable sanitary products. A 2022 study commissioned by Mamavation and Environmental Health News found PFAS in 48% of tested sanitary pads, underwear liners, and incontinence pads. Both single-use and reusable products require further research to understand the types of PFAS present, their levels, and their potential health effects.
While the presence of PFAS in reusable products raises concerns, it is clear that not all products contain these chemicals. Continued research and transparency from manufacturers are essential to ensure the safety of these products for users.