Safety & Sustainability: Why PFAS-Free Period Underwear is the Smart Choice

When it comes to menstrual products, safety and sustainability have never been more important. With growing concerns about chemicals in period products and the environmental impact of disposables, period underwear offers a refreshing alternative that’s safe for your body and better for the planet.

In this post, we’ll dive into what makes period underwear safe to wear, why gynecologists recommend chemical-free options, and how reusable period underwear like Pixie’s no added PFAS collection helps you reduce waste without compromising comfort or protection.

What Is PFAS—and Why Does It Matter?

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of man-made chemicals used in many products for their water- and stain-resistant properties. Unfortunately, PFAS are sometimes found in conventional period products, including some period underwear, pads, and tampons.

These “forever chemicals” don’t break down easily in the environment or your body. Research suggests PFAS exposure may be linked to hormone disruption, reproductive health issues, and even increased cancer risk. Learn more about PFAS at the CDC.

Because your intimate health deserves the safest protection, choosing period underwear that’s PFAS-free and chemical-free is crucial.

Are Period Underwear Safe? What Gynecologists Say

Medical experts increasingly recommend period underwear as a safe, breathable, and effective alternative to pads and tampons—especially when made without harmful chemicals.

Dr. Melanie Bone, a board-certified OB-GYN, explains in Teen Vogue that period underwear is not only “comfortable and convenient” but also a sustainable choice that supports an eco-friendly alternative to disposable pads and tampons.

Additionally, some period underwear promote healthy skin by reducing irritation often caused by synthetic materials and fragrances found in disposable menstrual products. The natural fibers used in Pixie’s period underwear, including organic cotton, help maintain proper airflow and moisture control, reducing the risk of infections or irritation.

Sustainability: Why Reusable Period Underwear is Better for the Planet

Disposable pads and tampons create more than 200,000 tons of waste annually in the US alone. That’s millions of plastic wrappers, applicators, and absorbent materials that take centuries to decompose.

Reusable period underwear offers a sustainable alternative that can last for years with proper care, dramatically reducing waste and your carbon footprint. One pair of Pixie period underwear can replace 5-7 tampons’ worth of disposable products every cycle!

Choosing period underwear means helping protect waterways, reduce landfill buildup, and embrace eco-friendly self-care without sacrificing protection or comfort. Learn more about the environmental benefits of switching to reusable menstrual products.

Tips for Choosing Safe, Sustainable Period Underwear

When shopping for period underwear, keep these tips in mind:

• Look for PFAS-free certifications or transparent ingredient disclosures
• Choose brands using organic cotton or other natural fibers
• Avoid underwear with synthetic fragrances or harsh chemicals
• Check for trustworthy leakproof and moisture-wicking technologies that protect you without compromising safety
• Read customer reviews and verify manufacturer testing practices

Thoughtful Design, Backed by Transparency

At Pixie, every detail of our period underwear is designed with your body and health in mind. Our signature BloatFit™ technology stretches up to 5x its size, so your underwear moves with you—even on bloated days. The 100% organic cotton gusset provides soft, breathable comfort while helping to reduce irritation, and unlike many mainstream brands, our underwear is never treated with PFAS or other harmful chemicals.

We know trust matters, which is why we prioritize radical transparency. Pixie Period Underwear has been third-party tested for PFAS, and we proudly share those results with you. You deserve products that are not only effective but also safe for your body and the planet.

We know transparency matters, which is why we want to explain what the results of our third-party PFAS testing actually mean.

According to Intertek, a global leader in quality assurance, most emerging regulations addressing PFAS require evidence of Total Organic Fluorine (TOF) levels below 50 parts per million (ppm) or 100 ppm. Intertek's PFAS Free certification is more stringent, requiring TOF to fall below the detectable limit of 20 ppm.

This means that detection levels under 10 ppm are often considered undetectable by most testing facilities and may suggest accidental exposure, such as contact with manufacturing equipment or nearby products containing PFAS. In contrast, levels above 100 ppm indicate intentional use of PFAS in products.

Pixie period underwear has been tested by Inertek, and the results showed no detectable PFAS within these standard thresholds, which is indicated by the “ND” in the below images. This underscores our commitment to providing you with products that are not only effective but also safe and free from harmful chemicals.

Pixie period underwear has been tested by independent labs, and the results showed no detectable PFAS within these standard thresholds. This means you can feel confident that our fabrics and finishes are not treated with PFAS—only thoughtfully designed materials made safe for your body and the planet.

Test Results From June 2025

FAQs About Period Underwear Safety & Sustainability

• Can period underwear cause infections?
  When made with breathable, natural materials and cared for properly, period underwear is safe and unlikely to cause infections. Avoid synthetic or chemically treated fabrics.
• How do I know if my period underwear is chemical-free?
  Look for brands that clearly disclose their materials, have third-party certifications, and state they are PFAS-free, fragrance-free, and dye-free.
• How does reusable underwear help the environment?
  Reusable underwear replaces hundreds of disposable pads and tampons, reducing plastic waste and lowering carbon emissions linked to manufacturing and disposal.
• Can everyone wear period underwear safely?
  Yes! Period underwear is suitable for most people. If you have specific health concerns, consult your healthcare provider, but many gynecologists recommend them as a safe option.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Body and the Planet with Pixie

Period underwear is transforming menstrual care—offering safety, comfort, and sustainability all in one. By choosing PFAS-free, organic cotton period underwear, you get peace of mind that your period protection supports your health and the environment.

Want to try it out? Pixie stands by every pair with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. If it’s not a fit, we’ll refund or replace it—no questions asked.