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Period underwear—designed to absorb menstrual blood with added layers—is revolutionizing convenience for individuals experiencing menstruation. Whether you’re a seasoned menstruator or a parent helping your teens during their first cycles, these products offer peace of mind. Not only do they eliminate the discomfort associated with traditional products, but they also present an eco-friendly alternative by reducing waste from single-use items like tampons and pads.
However, recent findings suggest that some popular brands of period underwear may contain potentially harmful chemicals, raising concerns for users who prefer these products for their safety and sustainability. Before you decide to discard your favorite pairs, read on to understand the implications and how to stay informed.
What Sparked the Concern?
In January 2020, an investigation revealed that Thinx period underwear contained high levels of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), a group of chemicals linked to serious health risks, including cancer and infertility. These substances are commonly found in everyday items like food packaging and water-repellent fabrics, taking years to break down in both the environment and the human body. Following this, Thinx faced a class-action lawsuit in 2021, and subsequent research by Mamavation found that only seven out of 21 tested brands were free from PFAS.
In April 2022, two individuals in California sued Knix Wear for falsely advertising their period underwear as “PFAS-free,” revealing another layer to the growing concerns. Social media has since exploded with confusion and frustration over these revelations.
Why Are There Chemicals in Period Underwear?
It’s understandable to question why period underwear, marketed as a safer choice, would contain these substances. Experts indicate that traditional menstrual products often include harmful chemicals, which can disrupt hormonal balance when absorbed through the vaginal area. “Manufacturers add these chemicals to improve absorption and minimize odor, but they often overlook the potential harm to the sensitive vaginal tissue,” explains Dr. Jamie Rivers, a menstrual health specialist.
PFAS may be included in period underwear due to their stain- and water-resistant properties. They might also inadvertently come from contaminated dyes or materials used in production, as companies typically claim they do not intentionally add these chemicals.
The Need for More Research
The lack of research in menstrual health is alarming, with limited studies conducted on the safety of menstrual products. “PFAS can take a long time to degrade and are linked to severe health effects,” Dr. Rivers warns. “Given how absorbent the vaginal area is, exposure to these chemicals poses unique risks with period products.” Unfortunately, the focus on menstrual health has lagged, resulting in minimal regulation and oversight of what goes into menstrual products.
How to Choose Safe Period Underwear
Before you throw out your period underwear in frustration, there are ways to find safer options. Research recent lawsuits to see if your brand has faced scrutiny over PFAS. The Environmental Working Group offers a comprehensive database called Skin Deep, which can help uncover the chemicals present in your products. You may also want to reach out to manufacturers directly to inquire about the materials and additives used in their products.
While the FDA currently does not regulate period underwear, states like New York and California have begun to implement labeling requirements, enhancing consumer awareness. Brands like Modibodi, Period, Aisle (formerly Lunapads), and Revol are considered to be as close to toxin-free as possible.
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Conclusion
Navigating the world of period underwear can be daunting, especially with emerging reports of harmful chemicals. However, by staying informed and researching your options, you can make safer choices for your menstrual health.