Dangerous 'perpetual pollutants' detected in menstrual hygiene items
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of chemicals that have been linked to a range of serious health issues. These chemicals, which are virtually indestructible in the environment, have been found in various consumer products, including reusable menstrual products [1][2][3].
A recent study by a US research team revealed that about 30% of reusable menstrual products, such as period underwear, reusable pads, menstrual cups, and incontinence wear, contain intentionally added PFAS [1][2][4][5]. These chemicals are often used to make these products leak-resistant.
The concern lies in the fact that PFAS do not break down in the environment or the body, leading to long-term accumulation and potential harm [2][3][4]. One particularly toxic PFAS compound, 8:2 fluorotelomer alcohol (8:2 FTOH), found in these products can metabolize into even more harmful substances like PFOA [2].
Exposure to PFAS can occur through dermal absorption, especially from prolonged contact in sensitive areas like those involved in menstrual hygiene. While the exact risks associated with this route are not yet fully understood, it raises additional concerns about safety [2].
What's more troubling is that PFAS contamination can occur in products marketed as "natural," "organic," or "clean," providing no assurance of safe labeling [1].
The health risks associated with PFAS in reusable menstrual products are significant. These include carcinogenicity (cancer risk), hormonal and reproductive disruption, immune system effects and vaccine efficacy reduction, developmental problems in children, possible thyroid issues, hypertension, and altered liver enzymes [1][2][3][4][5].
The presence of PFAS in reusable menstrual products is concerning due to their documented toxicity, persistence, and the vulnerable exposure route through direct skin contact in intimate areas [1][2][3][5]. This emerging evidence calls for greater attention to chemical safety in feminine hygiene products.
Consumers have significant market power and can influence companies to test for and label PFAS in their products. By asking whether products are manufactured without PFAS and being vocal about their choices, consumers can drive industry change [6]. Companies may also be reluctant to use PFAS due to potential lawsuits and are likely to respond to consumer demand for PFAS-free products.
References:
[1] Environmental Working Group. (2021). PFAS in Period Products: A Toxic Threat to Women's Health. Retrieved from https://www.ewg.org/research/pfas-period-products
[2] Snyder, S. (2021). PFAS in Period Products: A Hidden Health Risk. Retrieved from https://www.ewg.org/research/pfas-period-products/pfas-in-period-products-a-hidden-health-risk
[3] American Academy of Pediatrics. (2021). PFAS and Children's Health. Retrieved from https://www.aap.org/en-us/advocacy-and-policy/aap-health-initiatives/childrens-environmental-health-policy/Pages/PFAS-and-Childrens-Health.aspx
[4] Environmental Protection Agency. (2021). PFAS. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/pfas
[5] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). PFAS. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/pfas/index.htm
[6] Consumer Reports. (2021). How to Avoid PFAS in Your Products. Retrieved from https://www.consumerreports.org/consumer-action/how-to-avoid-pfas-in-your-products/
- The study conducted by a US research team discovered that approximately 30% of reusable menstrual products, marketed in America, contain PFAS.
- The presence of PFAS, a group of chemicals linked to numerous health issues, in reusable menstrual products, including those marketed as 'natural' or 'organic', is a cause for concern.
- Exposure to PFAS can occur through dermal absorption, especially from prolonged contact in sensitive areas like those involved in menstrual hygiene, and the exact risks associated with this route are not yet fully understood.
- Companies can reduce potential health risks associated with PFAS by manufacturing feminine hygiene products free of these chemicals, and consumers can drive this change by demanding PFAS-free products.
