Concerns about chemicals in menstrual products are not new. However, one chemical in particular is gaining increasing attention: per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS. These "forever chemicals" are ubiquitous in many consumer goods, including menstrual products. Understanding their presence and effects is essential for making informed choices regarding our health and the environment. It was therefore important for Iris+ Arlo to write a few lines on this topic.
What are PFAS?
PFAS are a large family of synthetic chemicals used to make materials resistant to water, stains, and grease. They are commonly found in household products such as cleaning supplies, cosmetics, and even shampoos. What makes these chemicals particularly concerning is that they do not break down in the environment or in the human body, hence their nickname "forever chemicals."
PFAS and Menstrual Products: A Dangerous Combination?
Recent studies have shown that PFAS are present in a wide variety of menstrual products, including those considered natural or organic. One study* revealed that 48% of tested menstrual products contained traces of PFAS. Menstrual products, which come into direct contact with intimate areas, may potentially expose menstruating individuals to these harmful substances. The vaginal tissue is particularly permeable and can absorb chemicals at a higher rate than the skin. Therefore, even small traces of PFAS in intimate hygiene products can impact health.
What are the Health Risks?
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), exposure to PFAS can cause:
- Reduced fertility
- Increased hypertension in pregnant women
- Increased risk of cancers
- Hormonal disruptions
- Interference with the immune system
The long-term effects of skin contact exposure through menstrual products remain poorly understood, but these concerns have been sufficient for some actions to be taken to limit this exposure.
News: Legislation Strengthens
The state of California has recently taken steps to ban the use of PFAS in menstrual products. In September 2024, a law was passed to prohibit the manufacturing and sale of menstrual products containing intentionally added PFAS. Manufacturers have until 2027 to reduce unintentional levels of these substances. This law marks an important step in the fight against exposure to these chemicals in everyday consumer items.
What Solutions Are There to Avoid PFAS?
There is currently a significant lack of transparency globally regarding the presence of harmful components in the manufacturing of menstrual products. Fortunately, some brands are committed to providing safer alternatives. It is important to look for menstrual products with known components and to choose protections made from organic, biodegradable, and compostable materials, while avoiding products containing plastic or added chemicals.
For all these reasons, the Iris+ Arlo brand is committed to maintaining the highest transparency regarding the composition of its safe menstrual products, free from any harmful substances such as PFAS. They are made from organic, biodegradable, and compostable materials, and are also plastic-free, BPA-free, fragrance-free, and free from elemental chlorine.
Discover all our 100% organic cotton menstruals products
Sources :
*étude menée par menée par le blog environnemental Mamavation
Mamavation. "PFAS 'Forever Chemicals' Found in Sanitary Pads & Incontinence Pads." Mamavation, 2023.
KFF Health News. "California Bans 'Forever Chemicals' in Tampons, Other Menstrual Products." KFF Health News, 2023.
Environmental Health News. "What Are PFAS?" Environmental Health News, 2022.
