- Researchers said they found perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a potentially harmful substance, in certain period products, including the packaging for those items.
- PFAS have been linked to potential health problems, including cancer, liver and kidney damage, cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, and immune system dysfunction.
- Experts say you can lower your exposure to PFAS by making sure water, food, and packaged products do not contain these “forever chemicals.”
Perfolyfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are called forever chemicals because of their extended time to break down.
In a new study led by Graham Peaslee, PhD, a professor at Notre Dame University in Indiana, researchers said they examined period products and detected PFAS in some of them.
They presented their findings this week at the 2023 American Chemical Society fall meeting. The research hasn’t been published yet in a peer-reviewed journal.
The scientists examined more than 100 period products and their packaging, looking for fluorinated compounds, an indicator of potentially harmful
The products examined included tampons, pads, reusable underwear, and menstrual cups.
The researchers noted that labels for period products do not typically list ingredients. Therefore, consumers do not know what is in the product.
The researchers said the results showed that many of the products did not have polyfluoroalkyl.
However, the researchers said they were surprised at the presence of it in the wrappers for some pads and tampons as well as in the outer layers of some of the period underwear.
The research team reported high concentrations in some products, especially in packaging and the outer layers.
They hypothesize that manufacturers add fluorine to keep moisture out and keep the product dry. When they add fluorine to the outer layers of the products, it could keep blood from escaping the inner layers and spreading to…
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