Very High Levels of Toxic Chemicals Found in Eco-Friendly Menstrual Products, Study Says

April 14, 2026

Quick Listen:

Millions of people have embraced reusable menstrual products in recent years, attracted by their potential to cut down on waste, lower long-term costs, and support more sustainable habits. Reusable pads, period underwear, and menstrual cups often come marketed as cleaner, greener alternatives to traditional disposables yet a closer examination uncovers a troubling detail. A rigorous new study has detected very high levels of toxic PFAS , commonly called "forever chemicals," in a notable portion of these eco-friendly options, prompting serious questions about chemical exposure during one of the most personal aspects of monthly health.

Finding the right intimate wear can be tough, especially when bras pinch, slip, or don't provide enough support during school or play. Whether you're a teen girl or a young woman, we understand the frustration. That's why DChica created India's first teen-focused innerwear collection breathable cotton designs with adjustable straps, high coverage, and leakproof period panties. Our bras, camisoles, period panties, and shapewear offer the perfect balance of comfort and support. Celebrate your growth and confidence every day at DChica. Shop now!

The Appeal of Reusable Menstrual Products

The case for switching to reusables has always been compelling. By moving away from single-use tampons and pads, users can dramatically reduce the volume of plastic and paper heading to landfills each month. Many brands emphasize natural fibers, moisture-wicking layers, and thoughtful designs that prioritize comfort and discretion. Period underwear, especially, has gained traction among younger generations for its convenience and low-maintenance appeal. The promise feels straightforward: protect the environment, save money over time, and enjoy greater freedom during menstruation.

That narrative, however, now faces an important challenge. What many viewed as inherently safer choices are showing evidence of containing persistent synthetic compounds that linger far longer than intended.

Key Findings from the Recent Study

Researchers examined 59 reusable feminine hygiene products sourced from North America, South America, Europe, and other regions. The sample included 43 period underwear pieces, eight reusable pads, four menstrual cups, and several reusable incontinence items. Using advanced screening techniques, including particle-induced gamma-ray emission spectroscopy, the team identified detectable PFAS across many items. Notably, nearly 30 percent of the products specifically 33 percent of period underwear and 25 percent of reusable pads contained concentrations consistent with intentional addition during manufacturing.

These were not incidental traces picked up from the environment or packaging. In several cases, levels exceeded thresholds that indicate deliberate application, most likely to create water-repellent and stain-resistant barriers. While PFAS deliver practical performance benefits helping prevent leaks and extend product life they persist indefinitely in both the body and the environment. Extensive research has connected them to hormone interference, weakened immune responses, and elevated risks for certain cancers and other health issues.

Heightened Risks in Intimate Use

The location of exposure makes these findings particularly concerning. Sensitive mucosal tissues, such as those in the vaginal area, can absorb substances more efficiently than ordinary skin, potentially allowing PFAS greater entry into the bloodstream. One compound highlighted in the research, 8:2 fluorotelomer alcohol (8:2 FTOH), can metabolize in the body into more harmful forms, including PFOA a well-documented toxicant.

Although this work serves as a pilot study with a modest sample size, it provides the clearest evidence to date of purposeful PFAS incorporation in reusable menstrual categories. Earlier investigations had centered mostly on disposable products, but this analysis extends the discussion to items meant for repeated, prolonged contact.

Reusable vs. Disposable: An Unexpected Comparison

The contrast is striking. Many consumers adopt reusables specifically to sidestep chemicals they associate with conventional disposables. Yet the results indicate that certain eco-labeled reusables may carry comparable or in targeted layers, even greater chemical loads. Menstrual cups tended to show lower or less worrisome PFAS presence, while period underwear and reusable pads stood out as the main areas of intentional treatment.

Situating the Issue in a Growing Market

The push for improved menstrual management aligns with a broader, thriving sector of intimate apparel and personal care. Demand for comfortable, functional, and stylish undergarments continues to rise, fueled by shifting attitudes toward body positivity, enhanced e-commerce access, and a focus on everyday wellness. Intimate apparel now forms a meaningful share of the overall clothing industry, with the vast majority of women relying on bras and underpants daily.

Brands in this space frequently blend utility with sustainability messaging, promising products that feel good, look good, and do good. The emergence of unregulated or insufficiently examined chemicals in closely related hygiene items highlights a critical disconnect between promotional language and verified safety.

Practical Steps for Consumers Today

This research does not demand abandoning reusable options altogether. A majority of tested products displayed lower or likely non-intentional PFAS levels, possibly from secondary sources. The findings do, however, call for vigilance and clearer accountability from producers.

Seek out brands that conduct independent PFAS testing and openly share results.
Opt for certified organic fabrics or items explicitly marketed as untreated when feasible.
Consider menstrual cups or simple, untreated cotton alternatives as potentially lower-risk choices for many users.
Support calls for stricter chemical regulations and mandatory disclosure in personal care categories.

Personal decisions carry weight, but lasting protection will come from industry-wide improvements: transparent ingredient lists, routine third-party verification, and limits on hazardous additives.

Looking Ahead with Greater Awareness

The presence of elevated PFAS in portions of the reusable menstrual market underscores a fundamental truth: labeling a product "eco-friendly" does not guarantee it is free from health-compromising substances. Progress in sustainable menstrual care has delivered valuable innovations, yet that advancement must be paired with thorough material oversight and candid dialogue with users. As adoption of these products grows, the industry bears responsibility to reconcile environmental goals with user safety.

Until robust standards and consistent testing become standard practice, the most reliable guide remains evidence-based information rather than marketing claims alone. Ongoing scientific scrutiny, like the study at hand, keeps this essential conversation alive and ensures consumer health stays at the forefront of product development.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are reusable menstrual products like period underwear safe to use?

Not all reusable menstrual products are free from harmful chemicals. A recent study found that roughly 30% of tested products — including 33% of period underwear and 25% of reusable pads — contained PFAS ("forever chemicals") at levels consistent with intentional manufacturing use. Menstrual cups generally showed lower PFAS presence and may be a safer alternative for many users.

What are PFAS chemicals, and why are they dangerous in menstrual products?

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic compounds added to products to create water-repellent and stain-resistant properties, but they persist indefinitely in the body and environment. In menstrual products, exposure is especially concerning because sensitive vaginal tissues can absorb chemicals more efficiently than regular skin. Research links PFAS to hormone disruption, weakened immunity, and increased cancer risk — and some compounds can even metabolize into more harmful forms like PFOA once inside the body.

How can I choose PFAS-free eco-friendly menstrual products?

Look for brands that publish independent third-party PFAS testing results and explicitly market their products as chemically untreated. Choosing certified organic cotton pads or menstrual cups are generally considered lower-risk options. Advocating for stronger regulatory standards and mandatory ingredient disclosure in personal care products can also help drive broader industry accountability over time.

Disclaimer: The above helpful resources content contains personal opinions and experiences. The information provided is for general knowledge and does not constitute professional advice.

You may also be interested in: D'chica Essentials. Innerwear re-imagined

Back to blog