Recent research in South Africa has raised serious public health concerns by revealing that many commercially available sanitary pads and panty liners contain chemicals known to interfere with the body’s hormones. The findings have prompted investigations by consumer authorities and major public debate about product safety and regulatory oversight.
Key Findings from the University of the Free State Study
A study conducted by researchers at the University of the Free State (UFS) found that every sanitary pad and panty liner tested contained at least two hormone-disrupting chemicals known as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). These substances interfere with the normal functioning of the body’s hormonal system.
Scientists analyzed 16 brands of sanitary pads and 7 panty liners, testing them for 20 different EDCs. The most common chemicals detected included:
Phthalates often used to make plastics more flexible, and linked to reproductive and developmental issues.
Parabens used as preservatives and associated with hormone disruption.
Bisphenols (like BPA) widely known for endocrine effects.
The study found that:
100% of panty liners contained phthalates, and
100% of pads contained bisphenols.
Most products also contained multiple chemicals simultaneously.
Health Concerns and Long-Term Risks
Experts warn that although the amounts of these chemicals in each product may be small, repeated exposure over many years month after month could pose health risks, especially because menstrual products come into contact with sensitive tissues. Potential risks cited include hormonal imbalance, reproductive problems, infertility, endometriosis, and even certain cancers.
Professor Deon Visser, head of the UFS Department of Chemistry, pointed out that even products marketed as free from harmful chemicals were found to contain EDCs, raising questions about labeling and safety standards.
Official Response and Consumer Protection Action
In response to the findings, South Africa’s National Consumer Commission (NCC) has launched a formal investigation into nine suppliers of sanitary pads and panty liners, including some of the country’s most widely sold brands. The probe aims to assess whether these products comply with consumer protection laws requiring goods to be safe, free from defects, and suitable for their intended use.
Some of the major suppliers under review include internationally known and local brands whose products were part of the study. The NCC has requested that the companies submit laboratory test results and may consider product recalls depending on the outcomes of further analysis.
The investigation has also drawn calls for greater transparency from manufacturers, regular independent testing of menstrual products, and stronger regulatory standards to ensure consumer safety.
Industry Reaction and Next Steps
Some manufacturers have responded by saying they adhere to international safety standards and that the levels of chemicals detected are within regulatory limits. However, consumer groups and health advocates say that the cumulative effect of long-term exposure remains unclear and that more detailed research and oversight are urgently needed.
In summary: A groundbreaking South African study has revealed hormone-disrupting chemicals in all tested sanitary pads and liners, leading to government investigations and renewed scrutiny of how menstrual products are regulated and marketed. Long-term health implications are a central concern for women, health advocates, and consumer protection bodies alike.
Mustapha Bature Sallama.
Medical/ Science Communicator,
Private Investigator, Criminal investigation and Intelligence Analysis.
International Conflict Management and Peace Building.USIP
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