Reusable Pads and Menstrual Cups Contaminated by ‘Forever Chemicals

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“Forever Chemicals” Found in Reusable Feminine Hygiene Products – What You Need to Know

A new study reveals widespread PFAS contamination in period underwear, menstrual cups, and reusable pads, raising concerns about potential health impacts.

For consumers seeking eco-friendly and healthier alternatives to disposable feminine hygiene products, a recent study from the University of Notre Dame delivers a concerning message: many reusable options contain “forever chemicals” known as PFAS. These chemicals, linked to a range of health problems, are surprisingly prevalent in products designed to be in close contact with our bodies.

What are PFAS and Why are They a Problem?

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of man-made chemicals used in a variety of industries and products to make them water-resistant,stain-resistant,and durable. Though, these chemicals don’t break down in the environment – earning them the nickname “forever chemicals” – and have accumulated in the blood of over 99% of Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Exposure to PFAS has been associated with a number of serious health issues, including:

Low birth weight and accelerated puberty in children
High blood pressure during pregnancy
Increased risk of certain cancers (kidney and testicular)

What the Study Found

Researchers tested over 70 reusable feminine hygiene products – including period underwear, reusable pads, menstrual cups, and reusable incontinence underwear – sourced from markets across North America, South america, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. Using a sophisticated detection method called particle-induced gamma-ray emission spectroscopy, they found PFAS in a important number of products. The study meticulously analyzed each layer of the products,testing a total of 323 samples.

The concern is that PFAS can migrate off of treated surfaces, and as these products are worn close to the skin, absorption could be a significant route of exposure. While the exact amount of PFAS absorbed through the skin is still being studied, previous research suggests it’s a real possibility.

Good News: PFAS Aren’t Essential

Importantly, the study also revealed that PFAS aren’t necessary to manufacture these products. “Only a subset of the products had high levels of PFAS present, which means that PFAS must not be essential in the manufacture of reusable feminine hygiene products,” explains Alyssa Wicks, lead author of the study. This suggests manufacturers can create effective, environmentally conscious products without using these perhaps harmful chemicals.What Can You Do?

Currently, there’s no requirement for companies to list PFAS on product labels.However,consumers can take action:

Ask Manufacturers: contact brands and ask directly: “Does this product contain any intentional use of PFAS?”
Support Transparency: Choose brands that are open about their ingredients and manufacturing processes.
Stay Informed: Follow developments in state legislation.A handful of US states are beginning to draft laws requiring consumer products to be free of intentional PFAS use.
advocate for Change: Encourage regulators to require ingredient transparency and restrict the use of PFAS in consumer products.

Researchers emphasize that more research is needed to fully understand the extent of PFAS exposure from these products and the potential health risks. Though, this study is a crucial step towards raising awareness and driving the industry towards safer alternatives.

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What are the potential health risks associated with PFAS exposure through the use of menstrual products?

Reusable Pads and Menstrual Cups Contaminated by ‘Forever Chemicals’ (PFAS)

What are PFAS and Why Are They a Concern?

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the surroundings and human body, are a group of man-made chemicals. These chemicals are used in a wide variety of industries and consumer products, including non-stick cookware, firefighting foam, and, increasingly concerningly, some reusable menstrual products like cloth pads and menstrual cups.

The health risks associated with PFAS exposure are significant. Studies link PFAS to:

Increased cholesterol levels

Immune system suppression

Thyroid hormone disruption

Certain types of cancer (kidney, testicular)

Developmental effects in children

The Discovery of PFAS in Menstrual Products

Recent investigations, spurred by independent testing and consumer advocacy, have revealed the presence of PFAS in several brands of reusable menstrual products.This contamination isn’t intentional; it’s believed to stem from the manufacturing process. Specifically, PFAS might potentially be used in coatings to provide water resistance or stain repellency to organic cotton pads and silicone menstrual cups.

The problem is particularly acute with products marketed as “eco-friendly” or “natural,” as consumers frequently enough assume these products are free from harmful chemicals.Period products are held directly against sensitive tissue, increasing the potential for absorption.

Which Products Have Been Affected?

While testing is ongoing, several brands have been identified as containing detectable levels of PFAS. It’s crucial to note that the amount of PFAS varies significantly between brands and even between batches of the same brand.

Here’s a snapshot of findings (as of August 2025 – information is constantly evolving):

Reusable Pads: Several brands utilizing waterproof PUL (polyurethane laminate) backing have tested positive for PFAS. The PUL layer is often the source of contamination.

menstrual cups: Some silicone menstrual cups have shown traces of PFAS, perhaps introduced during the manufacturing process. The type of silicone used and the manufacturing location are key factors.

Specific Brands: (Note: Brand information is subject to change. Refer to updated reports from organizations like Mamavation and the Environmental Working Group for the most current data.) Early testing in 2025 identified issues with certain brands of Thinx, Saalt, and DivaCup, prompting some companies to issue statements and investigate their supply chains.

How PFAS Enter the Manufacturing process

PFAS contamination in menstrual care products isn’t a purposeful ingredient. It’s a byproduct of manufacturing processes.Here’s how it happens:

1. Waterproofing Agents: PUL fabrics, commonly used in reusable pads for their waterproof properties, often rely on PFAS-based treatments.
2. Silicone Production: Some silicone manufacturing processes utilize PFAS as processing aids. While the final product isn’t intended to contain PFAS, trace amounts can remain.
3. Cross-Contamination: Factories that produce a variety of products, some of which intentionally use PFAS, can experience cross-contamination.

What Can You Do to Protect Yourself?

Navigating the world of sustainable period care can feel overwhelming. Here’s a practical guide to minimizing your exposure to PFAS:

1. Choose PFAS-Free Certified Products: Look for products specifically certified as PFAS-free by independent organizations. Certifications are becoming more common as awareness grows.
2. Read labels Carefully: While not always reliable, scrutinize product descriptions and ingredient lists. Avoid products that explicitly mention PFAS or related chemicals (like PFOA or PFOS).
3. Opt for Alternatives: Consider alternatives to reusable pads and cups if you’re highly concerned. Organic cotton tampons (without applicators) and period underwear (check for PFAS-free certifications) are options.
4. Contact Manufacturers: Reach out to brands directly and ask about their PFAS testing and sourcing practices. Consumer pressure can drive change.
5. Wash New Products: Washing new reusable pads and menstrual cups before first use may help reduce residual chemicals, even though it won’t eliminate them entirely.
6. Consider disposable organic cotton pads: While not reusable, they offer a potentially lower PFAS risk if certified organic.

Understanding “PFAS-Free” Claims

The term “PFAS-free” can be misleading. Currently, there’s no universally agreed-upon standard for what constitutes “PFAS-free.”

Total PFAS: Some tests look for the presence of any PFAS compounds.

Specific PFAS: Others focus on a limited number of well-known PFAS (like PFOA and PFOS).

* Detection Limits: The sensitivity of the testing method matters. A product might be labeled “PFAS-free” but still contain trace amounts below the detection limit of the test.

Look for certifications from reputable third-party organizations that have established clear PFAS testing protocols.

The Future of PFAS Regulation in Menstrual Products

Consumer advocacy groups are pushing for stricter regulations regarding PFAS in all consumer products, including feminine hygiene products. Several states have already begun enacting legislation to ban or restrict the use of