Experts call for regulation of toxic period product chemicals

Academics are calling for regulation banning toxic chemicals in period products as a major menstruation conference prepares to open in Brighton.

The design, health and sustainability of period products will be a central theme at the Menstruation Research Conference 2026.

Keynote speaker Helen Lynn will discuss the lack of regulation and encourage attendees to support an open letter from the Women’s Environmental Network (Wen) calling for change.

Lynn, an honorary researcher at the University of Exeter and senior consultant and research fellow at Wen, said independent tests had found toxic chemicals in period products.

These included PFAS, known as “forever chemicals”, the heavy metals lead, arsenic and mercury, the pesticide glyphosate, biocidal silver and synthetic fragrances.

She said: “Period products are placed in prolonged contact with the highly permeable vulval and vaginal tissues.

“The vaginal tissue itself is thought to be up to 80 per cent more absorbent than the skin elsewhere on the body.

“Repeated tests have shown that toxic chemicals are present in period products.

“Worryingly, we know there are no safe levels of exposure for many of these chemicals, so even small amounts could be harmful.

“We believe everyone who needs them should have access to safe, sustainable and accessible period products, and we’re calling on governments to take action now.”

Lynn’s talk will head two days of events at Brighton and Sussex Medical School on the University of Sussex campus on 7 and 8 July.

The conference is hosted by the Menstruation Research Network and the 4M Consortium, a group of researchers focusing on menstruation and mental health.

The organisations have combined their conferences for the first time, making the event the largest ever held in the UK and one of the largest in the world.

More than 300 research presentations will feature at the conference. Registration remains open.

Co-organiser Professor Gemma Sharp, of the University of Exeter, leads the 4M Consortium.

She said: “We know that research into women’s health has been woefully under-funded, and our conference is crucial to advancing knowledge in this area.

“We’re learning ever more about how menstruation and menopause link to wider issues in our physical and mental health.

“Our conference also brings in the psychological, biomedical and environmental experience across the life course, to foster crucial collaborations to improve health.”

Co-organiser Dr Chi Eziefula, of Brighton and Sussex Medical School, said: “This conference is very international, bringing together researchers from 66 countries with a unique focus on menstruation.

“We’re hosting experts in biological and social science, policy, advocacy, the arts and industry to highlight the latest research, ideas and creative solutions to support good menstrual health across the globe.

“We will highlight the huge range of research that is available to guide policy and to make menstruation and menopause less stigmatised and more healthy.”