Toxic compounds known as 'forever chemicals' detected in menstrual hygiene items
In a groundbreaking study, scientists have discovered that about one-third of period underwear, menstrual cups, and reusable pads contain potentially harmful chemicals known as Perfluoroalkyl or Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These chemicals, often referred to as "forever chemicals," are notorious for their persistence in the environment and their links to serious health risks.
The study, conducted by a team at the University of Notre Dame in Indiana, found PFAS in 30% of the products tested across North America, South America, and Europe. The chemicals, which are used to make products waterproof and leak-proof, have been connected to a range of health issues, including cancer, hormone disruption, immune system suppression, developmental harm in children, weight gain, high cholesterol, fertility issues, and birth defects.
One of the key concerns is the dermal absorption of PFAS, given that menstrual products stay in contact with sensitive skin areas for extended periods. While research on this topic is limited, the potential for absorption is a significant safety issue.
Despite the risks, many companies do not disclose the use of PFAS, and there is usually no warning or ingredient list alerting consumers to these chemicals. This lack of transparency is a cause for concern, as consumers have market power and can influence companies to test for and avoid using PFAS in their products.
The skin absorbs between 1% and 50% of PFAS in the product, and even small amounts can be harmful. Some companies may choose not to disclose the presence of PFAS in their products to avoid potential lawsuits. However, the levels of PFAS found in some products were so high that they must have been used in the manufacturing process, even though they would work just as well without the toxic chemicals.
The research team did not specify which menstrual products contained PFAS in their study. Nevertheless, the findings highlight the need for consumer caution and regulatory review. Some reusable period products do not contain PFAS, indicating that it is not necessary to use these toxic chemicals in their manufacturing process.
As awareness of the dangers of PFAS grows, consumers are encouraged to ask whether products are manufactured without PFAS and to be vocal about their choices to drive industry change. PFAS can be found in various products, including water-repellent clothing, tents, food packaging, and cosmetics, so it's essential to make informed decisions about the products we use.
The research team aims to raise awareness of the dangers of PFAS in menstrual products among both companies and consumers. While definitive data quantifying the precise health risks from their dermal exposure still needs further study, the toxicity, persistence, and possible absorption through skin in sensitive areas warrant consumer caution.
- The study on period underwear, menstrual cups, and reusable pads found PFAS chemicals in products from North America, South America, and Europe.
- PFAS chemicals, often used to make products waterproof and leak-proof, have been linked to several health issues such as cancer, hormone disruption, and immunity problems.
- The skin absorbs between 1% and 50% of PFAS, and even small amounts can be harmful, highlighting the need for transparency in product ingredients.
- Consumers, as market influencers, have the power to force companies to test for and avoid using PFAS in their products.
- Awareness of the dangers of PFAS in menstrual products should extend to other consumer goods such as water-repellent clothing, tents, food packaging, and cosmetics, necessitating informed decisions to ensure health and wellness.
