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PFAS endocrine disruptors are something you need to be paying attention to NOW! Read to find out more about these forever chemicals.
What’s the Deal with PFAS and Period Products?
September 3, 2024
Have you been hearing about PFAS in feminine hygiene products and other products found around your house? PFAS may be a completely new topic to you, or you might’ve heard some buzz about these sneaky toxic chemicals lately. But what exactly are they, and why should we care? Let’s see what’s really going on with PFAS in our tampons, pads, and other products you use daily. This is the info you want to know!
What are PFAS?
PFAS, or polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of synthetic or fake human-made chemicals found in many everyday items. They’re sometimes called “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down easily and can stick around in the environment and our bodies for a long time.
How Do PFAS Disrupt Your Endocrine System?
PFAS endocrine disruptors are tricky chemicals can mess with your endocrine system, which is responsible for regulating hormones in your body. PFAS can mimic or interfere with hormones, leading to health issues like high blood pressure, immune suppression, and even birth defects. Nobody’s got time for that!
Why Are PFAS Getting So Much Attention Now?
You might wonder why there is a sudden buzz around PFAS. Well, ladies, it’s because new studies and research are shedding light on just how widespread and harmful these chemicals are.
Researchers like Graham Peaslee, along with graduate student Alyssa Wicks at the University of Notre Dame, have been digging deep into the presence of PFAS in consumer products. Their studies have shown there are high concentrations in items we use daily, like menstrual products.
On top of all that research, the Environmental Protection Agency and other organizations like the Drug Administration are pushing for stricter regulations because there is now a lot of evidence of the health risks associated with PFAS exposure. This growing awareness of PFAS is starting conversations and action to protect our health and environment from these toxic substances!
Health Risks Due to PFAS
Alright, ladies, here is the simple nitty-gritty. Contact with PFAS has been linked to several serious health problems and risks. These risks can include:
- High cholesterol
- Immune suppression
- High blood pressure
- Low birth weight
- Cancer
- Thyroid disease
- Reproductive issues
If you have one of the health problems above, that does not mean it is due to PFAS. PFAS has just been found to have an influence on some of the health concerns.
What Products Often Have PFAS Endocrine Disruptors?
PFAS are actually more common than you might think. They show up in many of the products you use every day. Here’s a quick rundown of items that could contain PFAS:
Feminine Products
Popular menstrual items often have PFAS. Many popular tampon brand products have been found to contain detectable levels of fluorine, indicating the presence of PFAS. Menstrual pads and panty liners can also contain PFAS for their water-resistant properties. Period underwear is another place where PFAS are present. Brands like Thinx have been scrutinized for PFAS contamination.
Food packaging
Food packaging is one of the places PFAS can be found. Grease-resistant wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, and takeout containers contain these chemicals. While they keep food mess-free, PFAS can transfer to our meals and into our bodies.
Cosmetics
PFAS are often used in makeup and skincare products to give them a smooth, long-lasting finish. PFAS can be absorbed through your skin, potentially leading to health risks over time.
Non-stick cookware
That trusty frying pan you reach for every morning might be coated with PFAS to give it those non-stick properties we all love. The coating can release PFAS into the air and your food, especially when the pan is overheated or scratched. Over time, these chemicals can build up in your body, leading to potential health risks. There are other options, however, like stainless steel or cast iron!
Dental floss
This one may be surprising, but when you reach for that minty dental floss, you might not realize that some brands use PFAS to give it that smooth, slippery feel. This coating helps the floss glide effortlessly between your teeth, making it easier to use. You might want to look for floss made from natural materials or check the ingredient list to avoid these hidden toxins.
Cleaning Products
PFAS can also be in your cleaning supplies. Many household cleaners, especially those marketed as stain-resistant or water-resistant, use these chemicals to boost their performance. To reduce your exposure, check your grocery store or big box store for natural or eco-friendly cleaning products that are free from these harmful substances, or make your own!
School Uniforms
Even our little ones need to worry about PFAS! They are often used to treat school uniforms to make them stain-resistant and durable. Choosing PFAS-free options can help protect your child’s health while keeping their uniform in top shape.
Alternatives to Products with PFAS
Don’t worry, sis—there are plenty of safer options out there when it comes to avoiding PFAS endocrine disruptors!
For feminine hygiene products, you can choose items made from organic materials and avoid those with synthetic chemicals. Reusable items, such as menstrual cups and reusable pads, are great alternatives that typically don’t contain PFAS.
Opting for eco-friendly or natural solutions can help you avoid harmful chemicals. In the kitchen, cast iron or stainless steel cookware is a safer choice than non-stick surfaces. For personal care products, pick brands that are transparent about their ingredients and avoid synthetic additives. These simple swaps can help reduce your exposure to PFAS and keep you feeling great about the products you use every day.
Now that you have some more information, it is important for our health to watch out for PFAS in period products and beyond. By choosing safer alternatives, we can reduce our exposure to these toxic substances and protect our bodies. Stay informed, and keep rocking your awesome selves!
Let’s be proactive about what we put in and on our bodies and keep spreading the word about these harmful chemicals. We can make healthier choices and support brands that prioritize our women’s health and our overall well-being.
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