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Period underwear, designed to absorb menstrual blood with added layers, has revolutionized convenience for menstruators of all ages. Whether you’re a long-time user or your teens are just beginning their periods, these garments offer peace of mind. They are often praised for being eco-friendly and free from irritating chemicals, helping to cut down on waste from single-use products like tampons and pads. However, alarming research indicates that some well-known brands of period underwear may contain harmful chemicals, undermining their appeal.
Before you discard your favorite period panties and blame the system for a lack of safe menstrual products, there’s more to consider. We consulted menstrual health experts for insights on why these items may contain chemicals and how you can protect yourself.
What Sparked the Concern?
In January 2020, a report highlighted that Thinx period underwear tested positive for high levels of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These chemicals are commonly found in everyday items like food wrappers, waterproof fabrics, and cleaning products. PFAS are notorious for their persistence in both the environment and the human body and are linked to severe health issues, including cancer and infertility. You probably wouldn’t want these in direct contact with your intimate areas.
In 2021, Thinx faced a class-action lawsuit for these findings. Additionally, independent research by Mamavation revealed that out of 21 tested brands, only seven were free of PFAS. Notable brands like Thinx, Cora, Knix, and Proof were found to contain these harmful substances. In April 2022, two women in California sued Knix Wear for misleading claims about their products being “PFAS-free.”
Why Are Chemicals Present in Period Underwear?
The presence of these chemicals raises questions, especially for those concerned about health during menstruation. Erin Morgan, a healthcare expert, explains that traditional menstrual products often include chemicals for preservation and fragrance, which can pose health risks. Manufacturers aim to enhance comfort and absorption, sometimes neglecting how these chemicals might affect the sensitive vaginal area.
As for reusable period underwear, Flynn notes that PFAS may be included for their water and stain-resistant properties. Scranton mentions that some PFAS could inadvertently come from dyeing processes, not intentional additives. There’s a pressing need for more research in this area to fully understand the implications of these chemicals.
Why Isn’t There More Research?
Menstrual health has historically not received the attention it deserves in research and funding. The lack of studies means many menstruators are unaware of potential harmful additives in their products, which can be especially troublesome given the vagina’s high absorption rate. Flynn emphasizes that PFAS can lead to long-term health effects, underlining the need for thorough investigation into menstrual products.
How to Choose Safe Period Underwear?
Before you panic and toss your period underwear, consider doing some research. Check if your brand has faced legal issues regarding PFAS usage. The Environmental Working Group offers a free database called Skin Deep that can help you investigate the ingredients in your products. Contacting the manufacturer for transparency about materials and additives is also a wise move.
While the FDA does not currently regulate period underwear, New York has become the first state to require ingredient labeling on period products. Brands like Modibodi, Period, Aisle, and RubyLove have been identified as closer to being free from harmful toxins.
For more information on this crucial topic, you can check out other helpful resources, such as this excellent article on IUI and visit this related blog post for further insights.
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In summary, it’s essential to stay informed about the potential risks associated with period underwear. While they offer convenience and eco-friendliness, some brands may contain harmful chemicals. By researching brands and understanding ingredient safety, you can make more informed choices.
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