Columbia University study assesses menstrual product choices by demographics; socioeconomic factors determine attitudes about menstruation and use of intimate care products, while expectations around odor control disproportionately fall on Black women

December 18, 2023 (press release) –

• Black Americans and people with less formal education are more likely to use scented and scent-altering menstrual and intimate care products than other groups
• Socioeconomic factors influence the use of intimate care products
• Expectations around odor control disproportionately fall on Black women, perpetuating stigma around menstruation
• Understanding the influence of social identity is important for reducing toxic exposures from intimate care products and reducing health inequities
• Other studies have shown racialized beauty norms motivating the use of chemical hair straighteners and skin lighteners linked to poor health outcomes

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