What does the research say about talc and ovarian cancer?
Talcum powder and ovarian cancer
You may have seen information about a possible link between talcum powder and ovarian cancer, including international legal cases involving Johnson & Johnson.
If you have used talcum powder in the past, or are deciding whether to use products containing talc now, you may have questions about what this means for you.
At Ovarian Cancer Foundation New Zealand (OCFNZ), our role is to provide clear, evidence-based information about what is known, where uncertainty remains, and where you can find further information. We believe women should be supported to make informed choices that are right for them and so we think it is important to draw together information that supports your decision making.
What does the research tell us?
Research into talc and ovarian cancer has produced differing results.
Some studies have found an association between the use of talcum powder in the genital area and ovarian cancer, while others have not. It is also important to note that an association does not necessarily mean that it is a direct cause of ovarian cancer.
In 2024, the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified talc as “probably carcinogenic to humans” (Group 2A). This was based on limited evidence for ovarian cancer in humans, together with evidence from animal and laboratory studies.
A large 2020 study of more than 250,000 women found no association between genital powder use and ovarian cancer, although the researchers noted that the study may not have been big enough to pick up a small increase in risk.
A 2024 study found there was an association between genital talc use and ovarian cancer.
Most recently, a 2026 review combining the information collected from several studies concluded that the current evidence does not clearly show that talcum powder causes ovarian cancer.
Additionally, there is potential for asbestos contamination in talcum powder
Asbestos contamination of talc
Talc and asbestos are different minerals, although asbestos can occur in some talc deposits. Asbestos is a known carcinogen.
What about the legal action?
Legal action relating to talcum powder and cancer has taken place internationally, including a current Australian class action involving Johnson & Johnson and related companies.
The legal proceedings and scientific research address different questions. OCFNZ is not involved in any class actions and does not take a position on individual legal claims.
We see our role as ensuring women have access to the relevant information and are able to make informed decisions.
What does this mean for me?
Research looks at patterns of risk across groups of people. It cannot tell us whether using talcum powder caused an individual woman’s ovarian cancer.
If you are considering whether to use products containing talc now, you may decide you are comfortable continuing to use them, or you may prefer to avoid them or choose talc-free alternatives.
There isn’t one choice that will be right for every woman.
If you are living with ovarian cancer and are concerned about past talc use, or would like help finding further information or support, you are welcome to contact OCFNZ.
Explore the research
OCFNZ will continue to follow research in this area and update this information as the evidence develops.
This information is intended to support informed decision-making and is not medical or legal advice.
Reviewed September 2026