What Health Problems Have Been Linked to Hair Straightener Products?
According to published research, women using hair straighteners and hair relaxing products have an increased risk of developing uterine cancer and other conditions affecting the reproductive system. Chemicals in hair straighteners known as phthalates may interfere with estrogen production. That is the female hormone responsible for developing and maintaining the reproductive system.
Black and Hispanic women compose the bulk of customers using hair straightening and relaxing products. While fewer White women use them, they are at similar risk when it comes to these related health problems. However, Black women are at higher risk of dying from uterine cancer.
Learn more about Hair Straightener Uterine Cancer Lawsuits from Douglas & London.
Uterine Cancer
Uterine cancer is the most common health problem linked to hair straightener use. A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute states that hair straighteners “may contain hazardous chemicals with endocrine-disrupting and carcinogenic properties.” A clear link was found between hair straightener use and a greater occurrence of uterine cancer.
Uterine Cancer Symptoms
Initial signs of uterine cancer are often subtle. When caught early, most cases of uterine cancer are curable via hysterectomy. See your doctor at once if experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding, discharge, or spotting
- Pelvic pain
- Difficulty urinating
- Pain during intercourse
An abnormal Pap test result is always cause for concern. Make an appointment with a gynecologist as soon as possible.
Uterine Fibroids and Tumors
Women who start using hair straighteners at an early age and continue using them increase their risk of developing uterine fibroids or benign tumors. These growths, also known as leiomyomas, rarely become cancerous. While many women do not experience symptoms because of the size of the fibroids, larger tumors may result in:
- Anemia
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Excessively long menstrual periods
- Frequent urination
- Pelvic pressure or pain
Endometriosis
Whether hair straighteners increase the risk of endometriosis is still unclear. This condition occurs when the tissue inside the uterus, the endometrium, starts growing outside of the uterus. This tissue usually grows on the ovaries, Fallopian tubes, and in the pelvic area. Endometrial tissue is designed to shed each month during a woman’s period. This errant tissue tries to shed but since it is no longer in the uterus, it cannot exit the body.
Endometriosis is painful and often results in heavy bleeding during periods.
Infertility
Any issues affecting the uterus increase the risk of infertility. Of course, if a woman requires a hysterectomy to treat her uterine cancer or other serious conditions, she loses the ability to carry a child.
Endometriosis is a common cause of infertility.
Contact a Defective Product Attorney
If you or someone you know used hair straightening and relaxing products and was diagnosed with uterine cancer or other health conditions linked to these products, contact the experienced Defective Product Attorneys at Douglas & London. Call or text 24/7 to schedule a free consultation. We work on a contingency basis, so there is no fee unless you receive compensation.
