Wait, Period Underwear Could Have Chemicals? Let’s Talk PFAs!

A few years ago, I was obsessed with my period underwear. I’d finally found the perfect solution to avoid having to pause my life every month because of Aunt Flow’s visit. It felt like I had cracked the code! But then, I saw something that left me so confused. Social media posts were popping up about a $7 refund being offered by Thinx, the only period underwear I’d ever used. Wait, what settlement?

Naturally, I did some digging. Turns out, Thinx was involved in a lawsuit over the chemicals in their products. Now, I’ve always thought of Thinx as a “clean” product—so I was kind of caught off guard. Chemicals? In my period underwear? I thought these were made to be gentle, sustainable, and free from anything harmful.

Disclaimer: The lawsuit wasn’t claiming the underwear were causing harm directly, but rather that Thinx hadn’t informed consumers about the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs) in their products. According to the Washington Post, a physicist from the University of Notre Dame had found high levels of PFAs in Thinx’s products, which led to some serious questions from customers like me.

And that got me thinking... What even are PFAs?

What Are PFAs (and Why Should We Care)?

Great question! PFAs is a term for thousands of synthetic chemicals that have been used in a variety of products since the 1940s. These chemicals are known as "forever chemicals" because they don't break down easily in the environment—or, sadly, in our bodies. They can stick around for years, causing issues long after we're exposed to them.

PFAs have been used in a bunch of things to help them resist heat, oil, water, and stains, which makes them perfect for non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, and even food packaging. But, fun fact (not really): some of these same chemicals have been linked to serious health problems, like cancer, liver damage, and reproductive issues. Yikes!

A Little Regret... and Then a Lot of Anger

At first, I was just embarrassed. I didn’t do my homework before buying Thinx’s period underwear. With a family history of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, fibroids, and other reproductive issues, I should’ve been more mindful about the products I was using. I felt guilty for not looking deeper into what was actually in my period gear.

But as I learned more, that guilt quickly turned into anger. Why were these chemicals even allowed in products I was using? How was I supposed to know they were in there? It’s frustrating to realize that certain harmful chemicals are allowed in everyday products, especially when we’re trusting these items with our health.

Looking for Period Products You Can Trust?

If you’re like me and are now rethinking your period products (and honestly, everything you put on your body), don’t worry—there are safe, eco-friendly alternatives out there. For example, Tampon Tribe has been on my radar as a great alternative and now they’re on DoneGood! Their products are made with organic cotton and are free from harmful chemicals like PFAs.

Why I Love Tampon Tribe

Not only are their products plastic-free, toxin-free, AND biodegradable - they donate period products to youth in-need and to local schools and employ disadvantaged community members. 

Here are a few items I can’t wait to try:

Mixed Tube of Organic Tampons

All-natural, organic cotton, and no chemicals—just what I need. 

Organic Liners

Perfect for light days or just a little extra peace of mind.

Shorty Jim Jams

These comfy, organic cotton PJ shorts are a dream, both for sleeping and lounging!

These products are a great reminder that we don’t have to settle for what’s "convenient" or “cheap”, if it means putting harmful chemicals into our bodies.

Let’s Be Smarter About Our Choices

It’s easy to overlook the ingredients in our everyday products, but when we start asking the right questions (like “What exactly is this?”), we can make better, healthier decisions. So, if you’re in the market for period products, or just want to make sure the things you’re using every day are safe, shop with brands that truly care about your health and the planet. Luckily, that’s every brand on DoneGood.com!

And remember: It’s never too late to make a change. Happy, chemical-free shopping!