"Forever Chemicals" Found in Reusable Menstrual Products, Raising Health Concerns
A recent study has found that a significant number of reusable menstrual products, including period underwear and washable pads, contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as "forever chemicals." This discovery raises considerable concerns due to the potential health risks associated with PFAS exposure and the prolonged contact these products have with the body.
Here's a breakdown of the key findings and implications:
The Study and Its Findings:
Researchers: The study was conducted by researchers at the Paul H. O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs at Indiana University and the University of Notre Dame.
Publication: The findings were published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology Letters.
Scope: Researchers tested 59 reusable feminine hygiene products from various regions, including North America and South America. These products included period underwear, reusable pads, reusable incontinence underwear, and menstrual cups.
Presence of PFAS: PFAS were detected in every product tested. More concerningly, nearly 30% of the samples showed levels consistent with intentional use of PFAS, meaning these chemicals were likely added during manufacturing rather than being a result of contamination.
Specifically, period underwear had the highest rates of "intentional fluorination" (suggesting intentional PFAS use) at 33%, followed by reusable pads at 25%. Some samples, including period underwear, showed very high levels, exceeding 1000 parts per million (ppm), indicative of polymeric PFAS used in waterproof coatings.
Types of PFAS: The study frequently identified neutral PFAS types, such as fluorotelomer alcohols (FTOHs), particularly 6:2 FTOH and 8:2 FTOH. Notably, 8:2 FTOH can transform into the more toxic PFOA once inside the body.
Safer Alternatives Exist: The study highlighted that at least one sample in each product category was found to be free of intentionally added PFAS, indicating that it is indeed possible to manufacture these products without these chemicals.
Why are PFAS a concern?
PFAS are a class of thousands of synthetic chemicals that have been widely used in consumer products for their water, stain, and grease-resistant properties. They are dubbed "forever chemicals" because they are extremely persistent in the environment and the human body, breaking down very slowly, if at all.
Exposure to PFAS has been linked to a growing list of serious health problems, including:
Increased risk of certain cancers: Kidney, testicular, and prostate cancer.
Hormonal disruption: Including effects on thyroid hormones.
Reproductive issues: Decreased fertility and high blood pressure in pregnant individuals.
Developmental effects in children: Low birth weight, developmental delays, and accelerated puberty.
Immune system suppression: Reduced ability to fight infections and potentially reduced vaccine response.
Liver and kidney damage.
Increased cholesterol levels.
Obesity and diabetes.
Exposure Pathway and Risks:
Dermal Absorption: A primary concern with menstrual products is the prolonged contact they have with highly permeable skin, especially in the vaginal area which is rich in blood vessels. While the exact rates of dermal absorption of PFAS are not fully understood, this direct and extended contact raises significant concerns for potential chemical uptake into the body.
End-of-Life Environmental Pollution: Even if direct absorption is limited, the use of PFAS in reusable products contributes to environmental pollution. When these products eventually end up in landfills, PFAS can leach into soil and water, leading to broader environmental contamination.
Implications for Consumers and Manufacturers:
Transparency: The study underscores the critical need for greater transparency from manufacturers regarding the materials used in their products. Consumers often choose reusable menstrual products for their perceived health and environmental benefits, and the presence of PFAS undermines this trust.
Regulation and Labeling: The findings highlight a need for stronger regulations and clearer labeling requirements for feminine hygiene products to ensure consumer safety.
Consumer Choice: Consumers may wish to seek out brands that explicitly state their products are PFAS-free or look for third-party certifications.
Ongoing Research: More research is needed to fully understand the extent of PFAS migration from these products to the body and the long-term health implications of such exposure.
This study is a significant development, as it is the first to confirm the intentional presence of PFAS in reusable feminine hygiene products, which are often marketed as a healthier and more sustainable alternative to disposables.
I'm Aisha shehu
Talksocialtalka News
