Research reveals that several popular condom and lubricant brands contain high levels of toxic PFAS chemicals, raising health concerns.
Tom Perkins reports for The Guardian.
In short:
- New tests show alarming levels of PFAS in products like Trojan Ultra Thin Condoms and K-Y Jelly.
- PFAS, or "forever chemicals," are linked to cancer, liver problems and reproductive issues.
- Thin skin and high blood vessel concentration in genital areas increase PFAS absorption risk.
Key quote:
“The vagina and penis are incredibly vascular areas and dermal exposure to these areas are often higher than other places of the body.”
— Linda Birnbaum, science adviser for Mamavation who previously ran the Environmental Protection Agency’s toxicology program
Why this matters:
PFAS are commonly found in a variety of products due to their water- and stain-resistant properties. However, their inclusion in products like condoms and lubricants has raised alarms among health experts and environmental advocates. When applied to sensitive reproductive organs, there is a significant risk of these chemicals being absorbed into the body, leading to potential health issues such as hormonal disruptions, immune system effects, and even links to certain cancers.
