Many brands of condoms and lubricants contain concerning levels of toxic "forever chemicals," according to a new study. The study found that these chemicals are absorbed through the skin at a much higher rate than previously thought, based on tests conducted by the consumer advocacy organization Mamavation. Linda Birnbaum, the scientific advisor for Mamavation and former head of the EPA's toxicology program, wrote in a report that the skin of the penis and vagina is thin and the organs have a high level of blood vessels, making them particularly dangerous for exposure to forever chemicals (PFAS).
"Forever chemicals" or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) refer to a class of around 15,000 chemical substances frequently used to make products resistant to water, stains, and heat. These substances are called "forever chemicals" because they do not break down naturally and are linked to cancer, liver issues, thyroid problems, birth defects, kidney disease, decreased immunity, and other serious health issues. They are also known for causing reproductive toxicity, as well as endocrine disruption associated with low birth weight, reduced sperm count, hypertension in pregnancy, infertility, and shorter breastfeeding duration. These chemicals are likely used in condoms to help latex repel moisture and fluids.
Teresa Heinz, a researcher at the Green Science Policy Institute, stated in the report: "Chemically, it is certain that the female reproductive system will be contaminated with some of the chemicals found in condoms." The tests were conducted by an EPA-certified laboratory at the request of Mamavation to check for the presence of fluorine, a marker for forever chemicals (PFAS), in 29 reproductive health products. They found "forever chemicals" in several reproductive health products. Birnbaum emphasizes: "Given that condoms represent exposure to the most sensitive areas of the human body for both men and women, I strongly recommend that the industry identify and eliminate these chemicals immediately."
