Rachel V Thomas

Health and Me

Can Panty Liners Pose A Cancer Risk? What Science Says

A US lawsuit has accused feminine hygiene brand <span>Carefree</span> of exposing women to perfluorooctanoic acid (<span>PFOA</span>), a chemical linked to certain cancers. The complaint alleges that users developed health problems ranging from yeast infections to liver disease.

The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, claims the panty liners contained PFOA, a member of the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (<span>PFAS</span>) group, New York Post reported. 

The women in the suit claim they suffered health problems, including breast, ovarian and kidney cancer; thyroid disease; chronic inflammation; <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/h-pylori-hpv-among-five-infections-behind-1-in-8-cancers-worldwide-lancet-article-156245302" data-type="tilCustomLink">infections</a>; high cholesterol and immune disorders.

Others allegedly suffered reduced fertility or infertility, while the lawsuit claims the women now live in fear of developing cancer because of their alleged exposure.

“Each plaintiff suffered physical, mental, and emotional pain and suffering, anxiety over her diagnosis and treatment, and loss of enjoyment of life,” the papers state.

But can chemicals in panty liners pose a health risk? Scientific research has detected potentially harmful substances in <span>menstrual products</span>, raising questions about repeated exposure. 

<h2>What Are PFOA And <span rel="noindex">Forever Chemicals</span>?</h2>

<strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/43-of-women-with-autoimmune-diseases-say-they-were-told-it-was-all-in-their-head-lancet-article-156332945" data-type="tilCustomLink">43% Of Women With Autoimmune Diseases Say They Were Told It Was ‘All In Their Head’: Lancet</a>

PFOA is a synthetic chemical belonging to the PFAS family, commonly known as forever chemicals because some can persist in the environment and human body for years.

Research has linked PFOA exposure to an increased risk of kidney and testicular cancers. Studies have also associated exposure with health concerns involving cholesterol, thyroid function and the immune system.

However, the risks depend on the chemical, the level and duration of exposure, and how it enters the body. The allegations against Carefree do not, by themselves, establish the extent of exposure from panty liners or the resulting health risks.

<h2>What Does Research Say About Chemicals In Panty Liners?</h2>

A February study published in Science of the Total Environment detected endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), including phthalates, bisphenols and parabens, in sanitary pads and panty liners.

Detection frequencies ranged from 75% to 100% in panty liners and 50% to 100% in sanitary pads. Phthalates were more prevalent in liners, while bisphenols were detected more frequently in pads.

The researchers estimated daily exposure doses of 2–20 nanograms per kilogram of body weight under normal skin-absorption assumptions, rising to 8–80 nanograms per kilogram under alternative exposure assumptions.

The findings highlight menstrual products as a potential source of chemical exposure, particularly when use is repeated over long periods and exposure occurs alongside other sources.

Some endocrine-disrupting chemicals have been investigated for their potential effects on hormonal and reproductive health. However, detecting these substances in menstrual products does not establish that using the products causes cancer.

More research is needed to determine how much of these substances is absorbed during normal use and whether the resulting exposure poses a measurable health risk.

<h2>Can Panty Liners Cause Irritation Or Infections?</h2>

<strong>Read More</strong>: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/more-women-buying-testosterone-without-prescription-can-it-help-with-menopause-article-156163838" data-type="tilCustomLink">More Women Buying Testosterone Without Prescription: Can It Help With Menopause?</a>

Chemical exposure is not the only concern associated with panty liner use. Fragrances and other ingredients may trigger allergic reactions or contact dermatitis in people with sensitive skin.

Prolonged moisture and friction can also aggravate irritation around the vulva. Although liners do not necessarily cause bacterial or yeast infections, continuous use may cause discomfort in some people.

Persistent itching, unusual discharge or recurring irritation should be assessed by a healthcare professional.

<h2>How To Use Panty Liners More Safely</h2>

<ul><li>Choose unscented liners: Fragrances may irritate sensitive skin.</li><li>Change them regularly: Replace liners when damp or soiled to reduce prolonged moisture and friction.</li><li>Avoid unnecessary use: Skip liners when you do not need them, particularly if they cause irritation.</li><li>Check product information: Look for disclosures about materials and whether PFAS are intentionally added. Such claims do not guarantee the complete absence of these chemicals.</li><li>Seek medical advice: Consult a healthcare professional if irritation or other symptoms persist.</li></ul>

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A US lawsuit has accused feminine hygiene brand Carefree of exposing women to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a chemical linked to certain cancers. The complaint alleges that users developed health problems ranging from yeast infections to liver disease.The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, claims the panty liners contained PFOA, a member of the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) group, New York Post reported. The women in the suit claim they suffered health problems, including breast, ovarian and kidney cancer; thyroid disease; chronic inflammation; infections; high cholesterol and immune disorders.Others allegedly suffered reduced fertility or infertility, while the lawsuit claims the women now live in fear of developing cancer because of their alleged exposure.“Each plaintiff suffered physical, mental, and emotional pain and suffering, anxiety over her diagnosis and treatment, and loss of enjoyment of life,” the papers state.But can chemicals in panty liners pose a health risk? Scientific research has detected potentially harmful substances in menstrual products, raising questions about repeated exposure. What Are PFOA And Forever Chemicals?Also read: 43% Of Women With Autoimmune Diseases Say They Were Told It Was ‘All In Their Head’: LancetPFOA is a synthetic chemical belonging to the PFAS family, commonly known as forever chemicals because some can persist in the environment and human body for years.Research has linked PFOA exposure to an increased risk of kidney and testicular cancers. Studies have also associated exposure with health concerns involving cholesterol, thyroid function and the immune system.However, the risks depend on the chemical, the level and duration of exposure, and how it enters the body. The allegations against Carefree do not, by themselves, establish the extent of exposure from panty liners or the resulting health risks.What Does Research Say About Chemicals In Panty Liners?A February study published in Science of the Total Environment detected endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), including phthalates, bisphenols and parabens, in sanitary pads and panty liners.Detection frequencies ranged from 75% to 100% in panty liners and 50% to 100% in sanitary pads. Phthalates were more prevalent in liners, while bisphenols were detected more frequently in pads.The researchers estimated daily exposure doses of 2–20 nanograms per kilogram of body weight under normal skin-absorption assumptions, rising to 8–80 nanograms per kilogram under alternative exposure assumptions.The findings highlight menstrual products as a potential source of chemical exposure, particularly when use is repeated over long periods and exposure occurs alongside other sources.Some endocrine-disrupting chemicals have been investigated for their potential effects on hormonal and reproductive health. However, detecting these substances in menstrual products does not establish that using the products causes cancer.More research is needed to determine how much of these substances is absorbed during normal use and whether the resulting exposure poses a measurable health risk.Can Panty Liners Cause Irritation Or Infections?Read More: More Women Buying Testosterone Without Prescription: Can It Help With Menopause?Chemical exposure is not the only concern associated with panty liner use. Fragrances and other ingredients may trigger allergic reactions or contact dermatitis in people with sensitive skin.Prolonged moisture and friction can also aggravate irritation around the vulva. Although liners do not necessarily cause bacterial or yeast infections, continuous use may cause discomfort in some people.Persistent itching, unusual discharge or recurring irritation should be assessed by a healthcare professional.How To Use Panty Liners More SafelyChoose unscented liners: Fragrances may irritate sensitive skin.Change them regularly: Replace liners when damp or soiled to reduce prolonged moisture and friction.Avoid unnecessary use: Skip liners when you do not need them, particularly if they cause irritation.Check product information: Look for disclosures about materials and whether PFAS are intentionally added. Such claims do not guarantee the complete absence of these chemicals.Seek medical advice: Consult a healthcare professional if irritation or other symptoms persist.

can panty liners pose a cancer risk? what science says

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Can Panty Liners Pose A Cancer Risk? What Science Says

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