Many parents have used baby powder to protect their babies’ skin and keep it dry. But this same product has been linked to ovarian cancer.

When Johnson & Johnson, the biggest manufacturer of baby powder, released its product in 1893, it didn’t take long for women to realize that the product could help them as well.

Women began to use baby powder as a personal hygiene product, assisting them in fighting odor and moisture.

Johnson & Johnson took its marketing to the next level when they introduced Shower to Shower in the 1980s. This new talcum powder product was targeted to (mostly) women, encouraging them to stay fresh between showers by using the product.

Shower to Shower was marketed to be used all over the body. Women who use the product as part of their beauty care routine often apply it their genital area or sprinkle some in their undergarments. Once this became the method of use, this is when the dangers of the product were exposed.

Recent surveys show that four out of 10 women use talcum powder every day, and it is likely that most are not aware of their increased risk.

Baby powder is largely made from talcum powder, though some brands use a cornstarch base. Shower to Shower uses talcum powder.

Talcum powder is made from talc, a mineral that consists of magnesium, silicon and oxygen. When used as a powder, talc absorbs moisture and can prevent rashes.

In 1971, a group of researchers studied ovarian tumors and found talc particles embedded deeply in them. A 1982 study showed a significant association between talcum powder used in the genital area and ovarian cancer.

Another 20 or more studies have been done since have also shown an increased risk in ovarian cancer from baby powder and talcum powder users. Used in other areas of the body, talcum powder does not seem to have the same effect on ovarian cancer risk that genital use does.

Baby Powder Lawsuit Information

As of this year, about 700 women diagnosed with ovarian cancer have made the link to their baby powder or Shower to Shower talcum powder use and their condition. They have filed lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson for failing to warn consumers of this increased risk.

In 2013, a jury found Johnson & Johnson guilty for failure to warn women about the increased risk they had of developing ovarian cancer as a result of using its products. However, Johnson & Johnson was not ordered to award damages to the plaintiff in the case.

If you or someone you love has used talcum powder products, including Johnson’s Baby Powder or Shower to Shower and was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, you may be entitled to financial compensation.

Individual lawsuits may be filed or there may be an opportunity to join a baby powder class action lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson. Our experienced attorneys can discuss your options with you in a free personal consultation.