Contaminated underwear: these pieces reveal an excess of pollutants
Women's underwear, often associated with seduction and allure, may conceal a less appealing truth. A recent study by the Swiss partner magazine of Stiftung Warentest, K-Tipp, unveiled that numerous panties contain health-hazardous bisphenols [1]. With brands widely available in Germany included in the test, this discovery sheds light on a potential health risk most women may overlook.
Bisphenols, known for their presence in synthetic fibers, can pose significant health concerns over time, compromising the immune system, impairing fertility, and increasing the risk of hormone-related cancers, such as breast cancer [2]. Both Bisphenol A (BPA) and its substitute, Bisphenol S, exhibit similar harmful effects.
The study scrutinized 16 women's panties and revealed that only two models, the Exquise Tanga by Etam and the Hanro Luxury Moments Pant, passed the harmful substance test, earning recommendations [1]. However, 14 other panties tested, including those from popular brands such as H&M, Hunkemöller, Triumph, and Victoria's Secret, contained harmful substances, with 12 of them considered severely contaminated [1].
The tested panties primarily consisted of synthetic fibers like polyester, polyamide, and elastane [2]. Since they fit closely, harmful substances can penetrate the body directly through the skin due to heat, friction, and sweat [2][5]. This alarming finding is particularly concerning considering the sensitive genital region where exposure risks are heightened.
The severity of contamination varied among the tested products. For instance, the Triumph Crazy Stupid Love panty boasted the highest amount of Bisphenol S, while the Lace-up Lacie String from Victoria's Secret, the Auroria Panties from Obsessive, and the Chantelle String panty contained several bisphenols [1]. Moreover, the patterned thong from H&M harbored residues of questionable cleaning agents, and the silk and lace panty from Intimissimi, along with the silk string from Zara, were contaminated as well [1].
It's essential to emphasize that other factors, such as the proximity of harmful substances to the genital area, the duration of contact, and individual susceptibility, can influence the potential health impacts [5]. While this investigation spotlights the presence of bisphenols in popular women's underwear brands, it's crucial to keep assessing underwear safety as brands may change their practices and materials.
In a related context, when selecting women's underwear, opting for verified non-toxic and organic brands can help minimize exposure to harmful chemicals. Some reputable options include KENT, Pact, Proclaim, and TomboyX, which pride themselves on avoiding PFAS and other hazardous substances [1][3][4]. Always maintain vigilance by checking for the most up-to-date independent testing, as certifications don't always guarantee absolute safety.
Sources:[1] ntv.de, awi[2] Swiss consumer magazine K-Tipp[3] TomboyX[4] Pact[5] Environmental Health Perspectives
- Hygiene
- Consumers
- Women
- Stiftung Warentest
- To promote a healthier lifestyle and minimize the risk of exposure to harmful bisphenols, consumers are advised to consider vocational training in the textile industry, focusing on the production of organic and non-toxic women's underwear.
- In light of the study revealing health-hazardous substances in women's underwear, it is crucial for the community policy to include stricter regulations on the usage of bisphenols in vocational training programs for textile production.
- Women's health and wellness, including womens-health issues and lifestyle choices, should extend to the awareness of the potential dangers of bisphenols in underwear fabric, encouraging the promotion of safe and sustainable fashion-and-beauty practices in vocational training programs.
