Background
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can dysregulate hormonal processes with implications for reproductive and gynecologic health. Exposure to EDCs is ubiquitous, and studies have characterized consumer products, such as menstrual products, as exposure sources to EDCs among women. But little attention has been given to understanding products that improve sexual health and pleasure—personal lubricants, stimulating gels, sex toys, and vaginal dilators— as potential exposure sources to EDCs.
Objective
In this commentary, we discuss sexual health products as potentially important EDC exposure sources.
Methods
Drawing on the literature, we outline what is currently known about EDC exposure from sexual health products and discuss future research needs.
Results
EDC exposure from sexual health products may pose a risk to gynecologic health and sexual functioning because they are used on sensitive vulvovaginal tissues, and most women report using these products at some point in their lifetimes. Yet only a handful of studies have investigated sexual health products as potential exposure sources to EDCs, such as phthalates, fluorinated chemicals, and heavy metals. We highlight current research gaps and provide recommendations for future research.
Significance
Sexual health products are an understudied source of EDC exposure. Additional research investigating these products can serve to inform clinical practice and exposure reduction interventions.
Impact
Sexual health products represent an understudied source of exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). These products have contact with sensitive vulvovaginal tissues and therefore pose an important risk for gynecologic and sexual health. Additional research is needed to fully characterize EDC exposure from these products to better inform clinical practice and exposure reduction interventions.