A regulatory gap that needs addressing
The UK Government is currently consulting on proposals for a new product safety framework. For most products, safety regulations are taken for granted. But when it comes to period products, there is still no specific UK regulation that requires manufacturers to disclose ingredients, independently test products for harmful chemicals, or demonstrate that products designed for intimate and repeated use are safe.
At Wen, we believe this must change. For years, we have been campaigning for stronger regulation of period products and greater transparency about the chemicals they may contain. Research has identified harmful substances, including PFAS (“forever chemicals”), in some menstrual products sold around the world. Yet consumers are often left with little information about what products contain or how they have been tested.
This consultation represents an important opportunity to push for change.
A significant step forward
Our campaigning helped secure a specific commitment from the government to consider the regulation of period products.
During debates on the Product Regulation and Metrology Act (PRAM), Baroness Natalie Bennett tabled an amendment calling for stronger oversight of period products. Although the amendment was not adopted, the Government committed to exploring the issue further through consultation.
The inclusion of period products within discussions about product safety shows that policymakers are beginning to recognise concerns that campaigners, researchers and consumers have raised for years.
But recognition alone is not enough. We now need robust action.
Why Wen is concerned
Period products are unlike most consumer goods.
They are used internally or in close contact with highly absorbent and sensitive areas of the body. They are used repeatedly over many years, often starting in adolescence. Despite this, they are not subject to the kind of specific regulatory framework that applies to products such as cosmetics.
Current voluntary standards and industry-led approaches have not provided the level of transparency or accountability consumers deserve.
While emerging international standards may help improve practice, voluntary measures cannot replace legally binding regulations. Experience across many industries shows that voluntary codes alone are rarely sufficient to protect public health.
What Wen is calling for
In our consultation response, we urge the Government to adopt a precautionary approach to product safety and to recognise the unique nature of period products.
We are calling for:
- Specific regulations for period products rather than relying on general product safety rules.
- Independent, transparent testing of products for harmful substances.
- Stronger protections based on the precautionary principle, putting health and safety first where uncertainty exists.
- Clear information for consumers about product safety and chemical content.
- Greater accountability throughout supply chains, including online marketplaces.
We believe people should not have to worry whether products they use every month are exposing them to potentially harmful chemicals.
Add your voice
The consultation closes on 23 June 2026.
The Government have told us that people can go directly to the question on period products (A20) without completing the entire consultation. Every response helps demonstrate public support for stronger regulation and safer products.
Suggested response and guidance
