Talcum Powder and Ovarian Cancer: What Women Should Know

For many years, talcum powder was marketed as a safe and gentle product for everyday use. Products like Johnson’s Baby Powder® and Shower to Shower® became household staples, especially among women who used them for personal hygiene. But research and lawsuits have revealed a disturbing connection—one that thousands of women never saw coming.

Regular, long-term use of talcum powder in the genital area has been linked to a higher risk of ovarian cancer. If you or a loved one developed ovarian cancer after using talc-based products, you may have legal options. This post explains the link between talcum powder and cancer, what courts have said, and how an ovarian cancer lawyer can help.

The Link Between Talcum Powder and Ovarian Cancer

Talc is a naturally occurring mineral used to absorb moisture and reduce friction. In powder form, it’s been a popular ingredient in personal care products for decades. However, when applied to the genital area, research shows that talc particles can travel through the reproductive system and settle in the ovaries. This can lead to inflammation, which some experts believe may increase the risk of cancer over time.

Several studies suggest that women who use talcum powder regularly in the genital area may face a 20% to 33% higher risk of acquiring ovarian cancer than those who do not. Use it.

While the research does not claim a direct cause-and-effect link, the association has been strong enough to spark widespread concern among health professionals.

In 2006, the International Agency for Research on Cancer classified the use of talc-based body powder in the genital area as ‘possibly carcinogenic to humans.

Despite growing scientific warnings, efforts to add warning labels to talc-based products were denied by the FDA. As a result, millions continued using these powders without knowing the potential risks.

What Johnson & Johnson Knew—and Didn’t Share

One of the most alarming developments came from documents revealed during litigation. These internal files suggested that Johnson & Johnson was aware of potential cancer risks as early as the 1990s. In fact, one memo from 1997 warned that studies linking talc to cancer could hurt the brand.

Court records from a 2013 case revealed Johnson & Johnson had internal knowledge about the ovarian cancer risk linked to talc use as far back as 1992.

Even with this knowledge, the company continued to market its products without warning labels. For many women, this lack of transparency played a key role in prolonged use—and their later cancer diagnosis. These facts have become central to many lawsuits across the country.

Major Talcum Powder Lawsuits and Verdicts

Courts in multiple states have held Johnson & Johnson accountable for failing to warn consumers. The company has faced thousands of lawsuits, with several high-profile jury verdicts awarding extensive damages to women or their families.

Notable Talcum Powder Lawsuits Against Johnson & Johnson

These legal victories have highlighted a long-standing problem with product safety. While Johnson & Johnson denies wrongdoing, many juries have sided with plaintiffs after hearing the evidence.

Who May Be Eligible to File a Claim

You may be eligible to file a lawsuit if you meet these conditions:

• You used talcum powder for feminine hygiene consistently for several years.
• You were diagnosed with epithelial ovarian cancer (the most common type).
• You can identify the brand of talc you used—especially Johnson & Johnson products.

It’s not necessary to have a receipt or packaging. In many cases, witness statements, medical records, and product history can support your claim. Family members of those who died from ovarian cancer may also be able to pursue wrongful death claims.

In Oklahoma, the statute of limitations typically gives you two years from the date of diagnosis or discovery to file a claim. However, timelines can vary depending on the case and where it’s filed. Speaking with an ovarian cancer lawyer can help clarify your options.

What Compensation May Cover

A successful claim can help offset the severe financial and emotional impact of an ovarian cancer diagnosis.

Compensation may include:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost income or earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Funeral expenses (in wrongful death cases)
• Punitive damages (in some jurisdictions)

The exact amount awarded depends on the facts of each case. Some claims have resulted in significant jury verdicts, while others may settle privately.

FAQs

Is there scientific proof that talcum powder causes ovarian cancer?

There is no universal consensus, but several peer-reviewed studies have found a statistically significant association between Talcum powder use in the genitals over time which has been linked to ovarian cancer

Can I still file a lawsuit if I used talcum powder years ago?

Possibly. In Oklahoma, you typically have two years from the date of diagnosis to file a product liability claim. Exceptions may apply depending on when you discovered the link.

What kind of damages can be recovered in a talcum powder lawsuit?

Damages may include medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and, in some cases, punitive damages. Families of deceased victims may also pursue wrongful death claims.

Do I need proof that I used a specific brand like Johnson & Johnson?

Yes. Plaintiffs often need to show consistent use of a talc-based product known to be part of litigation, such as Johnson’s Baby Powder® or Shower to Shower®.

What if I was exposed to talc in a non-feminine hygiene context?

Current lawsuits focus on genital use due to the potential for internal exposure. Other types of talc exposure may not qualify for ovarian cancer-related claims.

How much does it cost to file a talcum powder lawsuit?

Most product liability firms, including Graves McLain Injury Lawyers, handle these cases On a contingency basis, which means that there are no upfront legal fees until compensation is recovered.

Conclusion

For years, women relied on talcum powder without knowing the potential risks. Today, a growing body of evidence has linked this everyday product to serious health consequences—including ovarian cancer. With new legal developments and court rulings emerging, those affected may still have time to take legal action.

If you believe your diagnosis may be connected to the long-term use of talcum powder, you don’t have to face it alone. A knowledgeable ovarian cancer lawyer can help you understand your rights, assess your eligibility, and guide you through the following steps. Graves McLain Injury Lawyers handles product liability claims with care and experience.