How to Address the Side Effects of PFAS in Feminine Hygiene Products
If you've discovered the wonders of period underwear, welcome to the menstrually savvy club! You've probably sworn never to go without them, especially during crimson week. After all, these beauties can be a godsend, wicking moisture away like there's no tomorrow.
Over the years, reusable period undies and other feminine hygiene products have empowered women to feel confident all day and every day—even during that special time of the month. Thus, it's no surprise that these have become indispensable to the modern woman's self-care paraphernalia. However, unknown to many, some may contain chemicals that could cause potential harm. One of these ingredients is PFAS. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at what PFAS are, the side effects of PFAS, and how you can make sure your feminine hygiene products are safe to use.
So, what are PFAS?
PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are artificial compounds that have been around since the 1950s. They're widely used in many consumer goods like carpets, non-stick cookware, outdoor gear, and, yes—feminine hygiene products.
Their unique property of absorbing liquids or preventing stains and odors makes them ideal for manufacturing sanitary pads, tampons, and panty liners. But these items can also come with the side effects of PFAS.
Recent studies have shown that PFAS can endanger health if ingested or absorbed through the skin. In addition, these chemicals are known to be "persistent." This means they don't break down easily. As a result, not only do they have the potential to accumulate and harm our bodies, but they can also wreak havoc on the environment.
The side effects of PFAS found in feminine hygiene products
Research shows that exposure to PFAS can lead to pretty serious health effects. According to the EPA, the most documented side-effects are immune system suppression, an increased risk of certain cancers, increased cholesterol levels and/or risk of obesity, and hormone disruption. Hormone disruption in women include symptoms like heavy or irregular periods, depression, hair loss, growing facial hair, acne, and hyperpigmentation.
Harvard professor Elsie Sunderland notes that scientists are only starting to understand the effects of the more than 4,000 different types of PFAS.
The good news is that PFAS can leave the body, but it takes a long time. Research shows it takes four years for the levels in the body to decrease by half.
How to avoid PFAS in feminine hygiene products
It's important to note that you can have leak-proof and stain-free feminine hygiene products without PFAS. For instance, Ruby Love, the premier period apparel company, uses technology that’s 100% PFAS-free. Ruby Love’s patented gusset doesn't contain plastics, polyurethane laminate (PUL), PFAS, nano-silvers, or other materials that cause odors or adversely affect health. To avoid dangerous chemicals in your period underwear, feminine pads, and other menstrual care essentials, here are a few safety precautions:
1. Read the label.
When shopping for period undies, pads, and tampons, it's important to read labels carefully before making any purchases.
2. Choose organic and natural products.
Organic and natural feminine hygiene products are less likely to contain PFAS compared to more synthetic materials like rayon or polyester.
3. Use reusable products.
Consider using reusable menstrual products, such as menstrual cups or cloth pads. These products do not contain PFAS and are better for the environment.
4. Trust Ruby Love Period Apparel.
Ruby Love offers the very best in dependable and sustainable PFAS-free period. We don't bank on PFAS to give you total leak-proof and stain-free confidence. Instead, we've come up with our cutting-edge Dri-Tech Mesh technology that helps stop all front, side, and back leaks to deliver 3 tampons' worth of absorbency. Looking for added protection? Our smart and intuitive design will securely lock in our double-sided or sanitary pad in place for 6 tampons' worth of protection.
And that's not all. Our proprietary and super absorbent layer is made of organic cotton to fight odor and keep you dry in the safest and most effective way. It even has a leak-resistant barrier that perfectly wicks away moisture!
Best of all, all our period apparel, such as Ruby Love Underwear, Ruby Love Sleepwear, Ruby Love Swimwear, and Ruby Love Activewear, was tested by an independent third-party laboratory, and found to be free from PFAS. Plus, they are reusable and eco-friendly: Just one pair of our period undies can save you from using 700 pads or 800 tampons, which can significantly reduce landfill waste.
So why not enjoy maximum absorption, peace of mind, and complete discretion—all while saving the planet? With Ruby Love, you can! Shop our gorgeous collection of period apparel today!
