For decades, women used talcum powder as part of their daily hygiene routine—on sanitary pads, after bathing, or applied directly to the genital area. What most didn’t know: this practice may have significantly increased their risk of developing ovarian cancer.
The connection between talcum powder and ovarian cancer has been studied since the 1970s. Today, the cumulative scientific evidence has led to billions of dollars in jury verdicts and prompted the World Health Organization to classify genital talc use as “probably carcinogenic.”
How Talc May Cause Ovarian Cancer
Unlike mesothelioma—which results from asbestos contamination in talc—the ovarian cancer connection involves a different mechanism:
The Migration Pathway
When talcum powder is applied to the genital area, particles can travel through the reproductive tract:
- Application: Powder is applied externally to the perineum or to sanitary products
- Migration: Talc particles travel through the vagina and uterus
- Accumulation: Particles reach the fallopian tubes and ovaries
- Inflammation: Chronic inflammation from foreign particles may trigger cellular changes
- Cancer development: Over years or decades, malignant tumors can develop
Studies have found talc particles embedded directly in ovarian tumors, confirming that talc can reach and accumulate in ovarian tissue.
The Asbestos Factor
Some ovarian cancer cases may also involve asbestos-contaminated talc. When talc contains asbestos fibers, those carcinogenic fibers can migrate to the ovaries along with the talc particles, potentially causing cancer through an additional mechanism.
What the Science Shows
Key Studies
The NIH Study (2020) A National Institutes of Health study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that women who regularly used talc in the genital area had a statistically significant increased risk of ovarian cancer, particularly with frequent, long-term use.
The Epidemiology Meta-Analysis (2016) A pooled analysis of multiple studies found:
- 33% increased risk of ovarian cancer with any genital talc use
- Higher risk with more frequent use
- Risk persisted across different study designs
The IARC Review (2024) The International Agency for Research on Cancer reviewed the cumulative evidence and classified:
- Perineal (genital) talc use: “Probably carcinogenic to humans” (Group 2A)
- Inhaled talc: “Possibly carcinogenic” (Group 2B)
Who Is Most Affected?
Ovarian cancer from talc use primarily affects:
Women Who Used Talc for Feminine Hygiene
The practice of applying powder to the genital area for freshness was heavily marketed to women for decades. Johnson & Johnson’s advertising specifically promoted this use.
African American Women
Studies suggest African American women have historically used talcum powder for feminine hygiene at higher rates. Several large verdicts have involved Black plaintiffs, and advocates have raised concerns about targeted marketing to this demographic.
Long-Term Users
The risk appears to increase with cumulative exposure. Women who used talc:
- Daily for many years
- Started use at a young age
- Continued use over decades
The Johnson & Johnson Ovarian Cancer Lawsuits
More than 50,000 ovarian cancer lawsuits have been filed against Johnson & Johnson, alleging the company:
- Knew about the cancer risk: Internal documents show awareness dating to the 1970s
- Failed to warn consumers: No cancer warnings appeared on product labels
- Targeted vulnerable populations: Marketing specifically encouraged genital use
- Hid evidence: Allegedly suppressed or minimized research findings
Major Ovarian Cancer Verdicts
| Year | Verdict | Plaintiffs |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | $4.69 billion | 22 women (St. Louis) |
| 2017 | $417 million | Eva Echeverria (Los Angeles) |
| 2017 | $110 million | Lois Slemp (St. Louis) |
| 2016 | $72 million | Jacqueline Fox estate (St. Louis) |
The $4.69 billion St. Louis verdict—the largest in talcum powder litigation—was awarded to 22 women and their families who alleged decades of talc use caused their ovarian cancer.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is often called a “silent killer” because symptoms can be vague and easily attributed to other conditions. Warning signs include:
- Bloating that doesn’t go away
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
- Urinary urgency or frequency
- Fatigue
- Back pain
- Menstrual changes
Ovarian cancer is more treatable when caught early, but there is no reliable screening test. If you have a history of talc use and experience persistent symptoms, consult your doctor.
What To Do If You’ve Used Talcum Powder
If You’re Currently Using Talc Products
Stop using them. Switch to talc-free alternatives:
- Cornstarch-based powders
- Arrowroot powder
- Baking soda-based products
- Nothing at all (many dermatologists say powder isn’t necessary)
If You Have Symptoms
See a gynecologist. Mention your history of talcum powder use. Request appropriate testing if symptoms persist.
If You’ve Been Diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer
Consider whether talcum powder exposure may have contributed:
- Did you use talc for feminine hygiene?
- How long and how frequently?
- Which products and brands?
Document your use history—this information is crucial for potential legal claims.
Filing a Talcum Powder Ovarian Cancer Lawsuit
Women diagnosed with ovarian cancer after using talcum powder may be eligible to file a lawsuit. Key considerations:
Eligibility Criteria
Most successful plaintiffs can demonstrate:
- Regular, long-term use of talc-based products
- Use for feminine hygiene (genital application)
- Diagnosis of epithelial ovarian cancer
- Ability to identify specific products used
Statute of Limitations
Time limits for filing vary by state and typically run from:
- Date of diagnosis, OR
- Date you learned (or should have learned) talc may have caused your cancer
Many states have a 2-3 year window, so prompt action is important.
Wrongful Death Claims
Family members of women who died from ovarian cancer may file wrongful death claims. Several large verdicts have been awarded to estates.
Current Litigation Status
As of January 2026:
- Over 50,000 ovarian cancer cases pending
- Cases proceeding in federal MDL and state courts
- J&J’s bankruptcy attempts have failed
- Individual trials continuing with significant verdicts
The Difference from Mesothelioma Cases
While both ovarian cancer and mesothelioma lawsuits involve talcum powder, there are important distinctions:
| Factor | Ovarian Cancer | Mesothelioma |
|---|---|---|
| Cause mechanism | Talc particle inflammation | Asbestos contamination |
| Affected population | Women who used talc genitally | Anyone who inhaled contaminated talc |
| Number of cases | 50,000+ | ~10,000 |
| Average verdicts | $10-50 million | $100 million - $1 billion+ |
| Causation proof | Statistical (population studies) | Direct (asbestos is known carcinogen) |
Mesothelioma cases typically result in larger verdicts because asbestos is an undisputed carcinogen and causation is more direct.
Prevention and Awareness
For Women
- Avoid genital talc use: There is no proven benefit and potential risk
- Read product labels: Look for “talc-free” on body powders and cosmetics
- Know your history: Document past talc use in case it becomes relevant
- Watch for symptoms: Ovarian cancer symptoms are subtle; don’t dismiss them
For Everyone
- Check cosmetics: Many makeup products contain talc
- Avoid inhaling powder: Any powder, including talc-free alternatives
- Advocate for transparency: Support requirements for asbestos testing in talc products
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for talc to cause ovarian cancer? Like most cancers, ovarian cancer develops over many years or decades. Women diagnosed today may have used talcum powder 20, 30, or 40 years ago.
Can I still get ovarian cancer if I stopped using talc years ago? Yes. The risk from past use doesn’t disappear when you stop. Talc particles may remain in tissue, and cellular changes may already be underway.
Is talc-free powder safe? Cornstarch and other talc-free alternatives haven’t been linked to ovarian cancer. However, any powder inhaled in large quantities could potentially irritate lungs.
What if I don’t remember which brand I used? Many lawsuits proceed even without perfect recall of specific products. Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder dominated the market for decades, and use of any talc-based product may be relevant.
Related Resources
Understanding Talc & Cancer
- Talcum Powder and Cancer: Complete Guide
- Talc Crisis By the Numbers
- Is Talcum Powder Safe?
- Talc and Mesothelioma
- Products Containing Talc
Legal & Compensation
- Talcum Powder Lawsuits Guide
- How to File a Talc Claim
- Talc Settlement Amounts & Verdicts
- J&J Talc Verdicts 2025
- IARC Talc Classification
- Asbestos Trust Funds
References
Journal of Clinical Oncology / NIH. (2020-01-07). Genital Powder Use and Risk of Ovarian Cancer.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31994899/
Epidemiology. (2016-05). Association Between Talc Use and Ovarian Cancer: A Pooled Analysis.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26689397/
International Agency for Research on Cancer. (2024-07-05). IARC Classifies Talc as Probably Carcinogenic to Humans.
https://monographs.iarc.who.int/news-events/iarc-classifies-talc-as-probably-carcinogenic-to-humans/
American Cancer Society. Ovarian Cancer Symptoms.
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/ovarian-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-and-symptoms.html
NPR. (2018-07-13). Jury Awards $4.7 Billion To Women In Johnson & Johnson Talcum Powder Suit.
https://www.npr.org/2018/07/13/628684038/jury-awards-4-7-billion-to-women-in-johnson-johnson-talcum-powder-suit