PFAS, or perfluoralkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are known as forever chemicals due to their persistence in the environment and serious health risks. These include carcinogenic effects and harmful impacts on the immune system, fertility, and child development. Research indicated that nearly a third of tested reusable period products, including menstrual cups and period underwear, contained PFAS at levels indicating their use in manufacturing despite the ability to produce without them. PFAS can be absorbed through the skin, raising further health concerns.
"PFAS can affect fertility, sperm quality or even the development of the child in the womb," toxicologist Marike Kolossa-Gehring told the German TV show Tagesschau.
"We found PFAS in some, but not all of the products," Peaslee, a physicist and professor emeritus at Notre Dame University, told DW.
"The skin absorbs between 1% and 50% of PFAS in the product," said Peaslee. "Even if only 1% or 2% are absorbed, that's still bad."
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