California Bans ‘Forever Chemicals’ in Tampons: Here’s What You Need to Know

California has become the first state to take a stand against “forever chemicals” in tampons and other menstrual products, such as discs and menstrual underwear.

Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a treaty this week account which will ban the sale of products containing “intentionally added perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances,” or PFAS, by 2025, similar to California’s existing law on PFAS in cosmetics that takes effect next year. By 2027, PFAS in menstrual products sold in the state must be kept below a certain level.

PFAS are called “forever chemicals” because of their ability to linger in our bodies. It has been linked to long-term exposure various health problemsincluding reproductive and hormonal disruptions, effects on the immune system and an increased risk of certain cancers. Previous research has identified PFAS in menstrual products, including tampon wrappers and menstrual underwear, and advocates have urged reducing our exposure to PFAS whenever possible.

In addition to menstrual products, PFAS can be found in different types everyday consumer products and supplies, from cosmetics, perfumes, cooking utensils and even drinking water. But the fact that tampons and sanitary pads may contain PFAS could be a major concern because they are needed for a significant part of millions of people’s lives, usually from their early teens to early 50s. And in the case of tampons, they are also used inside the body, where there is theoretically a greater chance of absorption.

The news from California echoes previous research into tampons and menstrual products raising concerns about the potential that they contain other additives with potentially harmful effects on human health, including metals such as lead.

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