Are Period Pants Containing Silver Safe? New Study Raises Concern

An alarming revelation has come to light regarding the silver content of certain period pants available in the market. A comprehensive investigation conducted by consumer rights groups has uncovered that some high-street retailer's period pants contain significantly high levels of silver. The presence of silver, intended to serve as an antimicrobial agent to combat concerns related to odour and hygiene, has raised serious questions about potential health and environmental implications for consumers.

Period pants have gained popularity as an alternative to traditional sanitary products, offering convenience and sustainability. However, a recent study conducted by Which? in collaboration with Italian consumer organisation Altroconsumo has raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with silver content in period pants

Silver, widely used for its antimicrobial properties, has been a staple in the manufacturing of period pants. However, scientific concerns are emerging, and for good reason. The US Food and Drug Administration has found that nanosilver, commonly used in such products, can kill lactobacillus, the beneficial bacteria in the vagina crucial for fighting off infections. This revelation poses a substantial risk to users, potentially leading to bacterial infections and complications during pregnancy.

Brands under the Lens

An independent investigation conducted by consumer rights group Which? in collaboration with the Italian consumer organisation Altroconsumo delved into popular brands. 

The focus was on identifying any chemicals of concern, with a particular emphasis on silver levels. The results are alarming, revealing significant silver content in some products without clear indications on the packaging. Intima by Bodyform and pants by Marks & Spencer stood out, containing 126.7 mg/kg and 57.8 mg/kg of silver, respectively. This contrasted sharply with other brands, which registered significantly lower silver levels.

Essity, the owner of Bodyform and Modibodi, defends the use of silver copper zeolite, emphasising its role in preventing odour and certification according to Oeko-Tex Standard 100. Marks & Spencer, however, asserts that it uses a small amount of silver chloride away from the skin, is approved by the UK and EU, and is designed to combat odour. 

Natalie Hitchins, the head of home products and services at Which?, underscores the need for consumer vigilance. She states, “Consumers should be cautious when purchasing period pants containing silver, as experts express concerns about the health implications. Which? challenges the necessity of silver use, citing Altroconsumo's previous testing indicating that promised antimicrobial properties may not be realized.

Environmental Concerns

Apart from health implications, the European Chemicals Agency warns that silver treatments, including nanosilver and silver zeolite, are toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects. This adds an environmental dimension to the debate surrounding the use of silver in period pants.

Primark, Repeat, Wuka, Lovable, and Sloggi emerged from the tests with no detectable silver above 0.1 mg/kg. Primark and Sloggi assert the use of alternative antimicrobial solutions, minimising the potential environmental impact of silver.

Legal Gaps

A notable gap in the regulatory framework emerges as there are no legal limits in the UK regarding the amount of silver that can be added to period pants. Manufacturers are not obliged to declare the presence of silver on their packaging or websites, leaving consumers in the dark about the contents of the products they purchase.

The study urges consumers to exercise caution when choosing period pants and advocates for transparent labeling practices by brands. The potential health risks and environmental impacts associated with silver content demand a closer examination of industry practices and regulatory standards. As the debate around silver in period pants continues, informed decision-making and open dialogue within the industry are crucial for ensuring the well-being of consumers and the planet.

Suggested reading: Can Oral Contraceptives Impact Women's Brain And Induce Anxiety?