Time to Thinx Again

Bloody hell: Recently, headline after headline has put a spotlight on PFAS. The “forever chemicals” are found in things like non-stick cookware, clothing, some cosmetics…and allegedly period underwear. Add it to the list of things people have to deal with while on their period.

The Story

Thinx has settled a class-action lawsuit alleging the brand’s reusable period underwear contains potentially harmful chemicals known as PFAS. Reminder: PFAS have been linked to infertility, lowered immune responses, and cancer. The company denied the allegations in the suit but agreed to partly reimburse customers who qualify (see if you do here). Even though the company maintains PFAS aren’t part of their product design, news of the settlement has apparently rattled users — especially since the brand marketed itself as “organic, sustainable, and non-toxic.” Now, many people say they feel as if they’re back to square one.

What do you mean?

Access to quality — let alone comfortable — period products can be a struggle. Pads and tampons can build up waste and include dioxins. Menstrual cups, while cost-effective, can be messy. Then, there’s the cost factor: Dozens of states continue to tax period products, which are already pricey. For a lot of people, reusable period underwear was a cost-saving and eco-friendly answer. 

What can people do now?

Since the FDA doesn't require companies to list all the individual ingredients in tampons and pads, it can be tricky to find the best fit. One option is to try to stay steer clear of products that include fragrances, colorants, and whiteners — if you can. That can help reduce your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. Another idea is to call your lawmakers to push for transparency. A few years ago, a New York law was passed that requires ingredients to be listed in period product packaging in the state. But there’s still a long way to go.