Bill calls for research into safety of feminine hygiene products

Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.) wants to ensure the safety of feminine hygiene products.  

The Robin Danielson Feminine Hygiene Product Safety Act, which she has reintroduced in the House, would direct the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to determine through research whether feminine hygiene products that contain dioxin, synthetic fibers, and other chemical additives like chlorine, colorants and fragrances, pose health risks. 

{mosads}“Given the present lack of research there is no way of knowing if diseases such as cervical cancer, endometriosis, infertility, and ovarian cancer may be linked to a woman’s use of feminine hygiene products” a news release from Maloney’s office said.

The bill would also direct the Food and Drug Administration to publicly disclose a list of the contaminants that can be found in products like pads, liners and cups. FDA only monitors dioxin levels in raw materials and finished tampons now.

“American women deserve the ability to make informed decisions when buying feminine hygiene products,” Maloney said in the release. “Given the sheer number of women who use these products it’s time we have definitive answers on their potential risks to women.”

Supports of the bill say the safety of feminine hygiene products is a research area that’s been greatly overlooked.

“Internally worn products, such as tampons and cups, are worn in the most absorbent part of the body, off and on, for literally decades,” Chris Bobel, president-elect of the Society for Menstrual Cycle Research, said in the release. “Yet there is a paucity of independent research that addresses the potential risks associated with these and other menstrual products.”