Toxic Chemicals in Your Period Underwear? What to Know About PFAS
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Over the past few years, PFAS—the so-called "forever chemicals"—have been making headlines. They've been found in a wide range of everyday products, including period underwear. But what does that actually mean? Could these harmful substances be hiding in something as personal as menstrual underwear? Most importantly, how can you choose products that are truly safe for your body?
What Are PFAS and Why Should You Avoid Them?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic chemicals that do not break down easily in the environment. Instead, they accumulate in nature and in the human body, sometimes remaining there for decades.
These chemicals are commonly used to make fabrics resistant to water, oil, and stains. While that may sound useful, growing evidence suggests PFAS exposure may have serious health consequences.
According to health experts and organizations such as the European Environment Agency, PFAS exposure has been linked to:
- Liver damage.
- Thyroid disorders.
- Hormonal disruption.
- Fertility problems.
- An increased risk of certain cancers.
These findings raise important questions about the safety of everyday products—especially those worn close to intimate areas.
What the Mamavation Study Found
A few years ago, the independent consumer advocacy organization Mamavation tested more than 50 menstrual products, including period underwear, sanitary pads, and tampons.
The results were concerning. According to the Mamavation investigation, PFAS indicators were detected in approximately 65% of the period underwear tested. Some products contained particularly high levels, raising concerns about long-term exposure during menstruation.
The findings prompted many consumers to demand greater transparency, stricter product testing, and safer menstrual care options.
Gentle Day Period Underwear Is PFAS-Free
Most PFAS compounds contain strong carbon-fluorine bonds, making fluorine testing a widely used screening method for potential PFAS contamination.
Gentle Day period underwear has been tested for fluorine, and no fluorine was detected. This means the products are free from PFAS.
I personally use Gentle Day products, as do my daughter, friends, colleagues, and thousands of women around the world. That's why it's so important to me that they're not only comfortable and effective, but also safe and trustworthy.
Why Product Safety Matters
Comfort and absorbency are important when choosing period underwear, but so are the materials that come into direct contact with your skin. Because intimate products are worn for many hours at a time, choosing products made without potentially harmful chemicals can provide greater peace of mind.
Gentle Day's commitment includes:
- No intentionally added harmful chemicals.
- Hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested materials.
- Safe and sustainable menstrual care solutions for girls and women.
How to Choose Safer Menstrual Products
- Choose products that have been tested for safety and quality. Extremely low-cost products from unknown marketplaces may not meet the same quality standards.
- Look for brands that openly share information about product testing, materials, and safety certifications.
- Share reliable information with others so more women can make informed choices about their menstrual health.
The Bottom Line
Period underwear should provide comfort, confidence, and peace of mind—not uncertainty about the materials touching your skin.
At Gentle Day, we believe every woman deserves menstrual products that are effective, comfortable, and made with safety in mind.
Choose wisely—because your body deserves products you can trust.