Millions of women are using personal lubricants that contain glycerin and propylene glycol — without any warning that these common additives may cause serious harm to vaginal and rectal tissue. These petroleum-derived and synthetic chemicals are classified as humectants, designed to draw in moisture. But in mucosal environments, they can do the opposite — pulling moisture out of delicate cells, leading to dryness, burning, stinging, epithelial breakdown, and even long-term tissue damage.

Glycerin, especially in high concentrations, can disrupt vaginal flora due to its sugar-like structure — encouraging the growth of yeast and harmful bacteria. It has been repeatedly linked to bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections, especially in women already prone to them.

Propylene glycol, widely used in antifreeze and industrial solvents, is even more alarming. It has been associated with hypersensitivity reactions, cellular irritation, and systemic side effects like heart arrhythmias, kidney dysfunction, and central nervous system issues when absorbed in large enough quantities. Yet it remains in many over-the-counter lubricants used internally.

Despite these concerns, manufacturers are not required to disclose the ingredient source (animal fat, vegetable oil, or petroleum), the percentage concentration, or any of the potential long-term health effects.

This lack of oversight raises urgent questions:

What happens when women use these products regularly for years, or during pregnancy?
Could petroleum-derived lubricants increase the risk of reproductive disorders, hormonal disruption, autoimmune conditions, or even certain cancers?
Do these chemicals worsen vaginal atrophy or post-menopausal dryness?
Could they increase skin permeability, potentially raising the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
Nobody knows — because these questions haven’t been properly studied.

That’s why we’re calling on the FDA and health regulators to:

Require manufacturers to disclose ingredient sources for any product used on mucous membranes.
Mandate clear warning labels about the documented risks of glycerin and propylene glycol, especially in high concentrations.
Prioritize independent research and updated guidance on the safe formulation of vaginal and rectal care products.
This petition was launched by Wet Orchid, a women-led brand, after conducting an independent exposé and compiling dozens of studies and regulatory findings. You can read the full report here:
👉 wetorchid.com/glycerinstudy

We’re not asking for a ban — we’re demanding transparency, informed consent, and basic safety for our most intimate and vulnerable tissues.

Sign this petition if you believe women deserve to know what’s going into their bodies — and if you believe silence is no longer acceptable.