Why PFAS-Free Period Underwear Should Be Non-Negotiable
We talk a lot about what goes into our bodies, but what about what goes on them? When it comes to period care, the conversation has to go deeper than leaks and comfort. It’s time we talk about PFAS.
WTF Are PFAS (and Why Should We Care?)
PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances - a tongue-twister of a name for a group of synthetic chemicals used in everything from nonstick pans to waterproof gear. These "forever chemicals" are called that because they don’t break down in the environment… or your body.
They’ve also been found in mainstream period products, including pads, tampons, and even some menstrual underwear. Yep, the very thing designed to protect you each month may be quietly exposing you to toxins.
So… What’s the Big Deal With PFAS?
According to peer-reviewed studies (like this one from the Environmental Working Group), PFAS have been linked to:
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Hormone disruption (not ideal seeing as our hormones are already on a rollercoaster)
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Infertility and menstrual irregularities
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Certain cancers
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Thyroid disease
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Immune system suppression.
Basically, these are not substances you want near your body if you can avoid it, especially not on or around your vulva, where the skin is highly absorbent.
Why Are PFAS in Period Products to Begin With?
In a word: waterproofing. PFAS help create leak-proof barriers in clothing and textiles. But that comes at a cost - your health.
At Fri Period, we said: hard pass. There had to be a better way.
Our Commitment: We Want To Be PFAS-Free
We’re proud to say our reusable period underwear contains zero PFAS. None. Nada. Instead, we use a plant-based, eco-friendly water-repellent treatment developed in Germany - a game-changing technology made from biological waste and natural plant extracts.
This means you still get leak-proof protection, without compromising your health or the planet.
Why This Matters So Much to Us
Our founder, Nina, lives with PCOS and adenomyosis, both of which are hormone-sensitive conditions. The last thing she (or anyone) needs is added chemical interference during their cycle.
That’s why everything we do at Fri Period is rooted in care, comfort, and clean ingredients - from our materials to our mission.
Let’s Talk Fabrics: Bamboo + Organic Cotton FTW
We only use materials that are:
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Kind to skin: Organic cotton and bamboo yarn are naturally breathable, hypoallergenic, and soft as a cloud.
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Sustainably sourced: No pesticides. No toxic dyes. Just clean, feel-good fibers.
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Function-first: Our leakproof gussets are discreet but powerful, keeping you dry, comfy, and confident all day.
All of our period panties are made with organic cotton and are OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certified, which means they've been tested for harmful substances including heavy metals. No PFAS. Just good-for-you materials.
Explore our lineup:
Not Just Better for You—Better for the Planet
Did you know the average person uses 11,000 disposable period products in their lifetime? And most of them? Plastic-packed and chemically treated.
Choosing sustainable period care like reusable period underwear helps:
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Cut down on landfill waste
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Reduce exposure to microplastics
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Support a healthier planet and body
How to Make the Switch (Without the Stress)
Not sure where to start? Here’s a quick guide:
Test the waters (pun intended). If you're unsure, begin with one style of period underwear to see how it feels. A lot of our customers do this and then end up coming back to complete their "period wardrobe".
No pressure to go 100% overnight. Even replacing a few pads or tampons a month makes a difference.
You Deserve Better—And We’re Making It Happen
At Fri Period, we’re not just here to sell you underwear. We’re here to flip the script on what period products should be:
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Safe
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Sustainable
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Empowering
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Science-backed
Because being on your period shouldn’t mean compromising your health. Ever.
FAQs
1. Are all period underwear brands PFAS-free?
Nope. Some brands still use PFAS-based treatments for waterproofing.
2. Is PFAS exposure really that serious?
It can be. Even low levels of PFAS exposure have been linked to hormonal disruption, cancer risks, and immune dysfunction. These “forever chemicals” accumulate over time.
3. How does Fri Period ensure leak protection without PFAS?
We use a water-repellent finish derived from biologic waste and plant extracts, not synthetic chemicals. It’s a healthier alternative backed by science and designed with your body in mind. Plus, our absorbent fabric is moisture-wicking and breathable.
4. What styles do you offer that are PFAS-free?
All of them! From our Classic Brief to our Boxer, every style is PFAS-free, Oeko-Tex Certified, and full of comfort.
Your period. Your health. Your planet. Make the switch to PFAS-free today.
