A University of the Free State study found that every sanitary pad and pantyliner tested contained at least two endocrine-disrupting chemicals, raising concerns about long-term health risks.
By Mapaballo Borotho
Hormone-disrupting chemicals have been detected in South African menstrual products, which are used by millions of people across the country.
Most menstrual products, including pads, tampons and pantyliners are often marketed as “free from harmful chemicals”. However, research conducted by the University of the Free State (UFS) suggests otherwise.
Published in Science of the Total Environment, the study found that every sanitary pad and pantyliner tested contained at least two endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), raising concerns about consumer safety, transparency, and long-term exposure.
The research was conducted by a UFS team, including Janine Blignaut (PhD candidate), Dr Gabre Kemp from the Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry, Prof Elizabeth Erasmus, Prof Deon Visser and Prof Marietjie Schutte-Smith from the Department of Chemistry.
“Our study highlights a concerning reality regarding the safety of menstrual products,” said Prof Visser, Head of the Department of Chemistry at the UFS.
“Many sanitary pads and liners contain hormone-disrupting chemicals, even when they are marketed as being ‘free from harmful chemicals’.”
The team analysed 16 different brands of sanitary pads and eight types of pantyliners that are popular in South African retail stores.
The study focused on three groups of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs):
- Phthalates
- Bisphenols (including BPA)
- Parabens
The findings showed widespread contamination across all products tested. Every single pad and liner contained at least two of the target chemicals.
Bisphenols were detected in 100% of sanitary pads and 75% of pantyliners, while parabens were found in more than 81% of pads and 75% of liners. Phthalates were present in all pantyliners tested and in 50% of sanitary pads.
The researchers noted that these substances are not always added intentionally, but may migrate into products from plastics, adhesives, and manufacturing processes.
“The heat-pressing process can cause these chemicals to move into the top layer that touches your skin,” Prof Visser explained.
Although the levels detected in a single product may appear small, the researchers emphasised that the concern lies in repeated exposure over time.
This as menstrual products come into contact with mucosal tissue, which absorbs chemicals more quickly and directly than normal skin.
Most individuals use these products for several days each month over several decades. This repeated contact may contribute to cumulative exposure, which has been linked to hormonal imbalances, fertility problems, endometriosis, and certain types of cancer.
Prof Visser encouraged consumers to look for products certified under the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 or to consider reusable alternatives.
“Look for the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 verification, an international standard, or use a reusable sanitary towel,” he said.
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