A groundbreaking new study conducted by researchers at the University of the Free State (UFS) has revealed that every sanitary pad and panty liner tested in South Africa contained hormone-disrupting chemicals. The findings have sparked concern about the potential long-term health implications for millions of women and others who menstruate across the country.
Sanitary pads and panty liners are widely regarded as essential hygiene products, relied upon monthly during menstruation. For many, they are trusted items used during a physically sensitive time. The discovery that these everyday products may contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) has therefore raised alarm among health advocates and consumers alike.
The UFS research team analysed 16 sanitary pads and seven panty liners sourced from popular brands sold in local stores. These are the same products purchased and used by millions of South Africans each month.
Researchers screened the products for 20 different endocrine-disrupting chemicals, including phthalates, parabens and bisphenols — substances known to interfere with the body’s hormonal system.
The results were stark. According to the university, endocrine-disrupting chemicals were detected and quantified in all tested samples. Each pad and liner contained at least two of the targeted EDCs.
Among the most concerning findings:
* 100% of panty liners tested contained phthalates
* 100% of sanitary pads tested contained bisphenols
* Most products contained multiple types of hormone-disrupting chemicals
* Phthalates were more prevalent in liners
* Bisphenols were more common in pads
These chemicals are often used in plastics and manufacturing processes, but their presence in menstrual products has raised questions about consumer safety and regulatory oversight.
Why Endocrine Disruptors Are a Concern
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals are substances that can interfere with the body’s hormonal (endocrine) system. Hormones regulate critical functions such as reproduction, metabolism, mood and development. When disrupted, the consequences can be significant.
Scientific literature has linked long-term exposure to certain EDCs to reproductive health problems, hormone-related cancers and other chronic conditions. While the levels detected in individual products may be relatively low, researchers warn that repeated exposure over many years could pose cumulative health risks.
Menstrual products are used for several consecutive days each month, often over decades. They are also in direct contact with highly sensitive genital tissue, which may increase the potential for chemical absorption.
The UFS researchers described menstrual products as a possible “hidden source of toxic exposure,” cautioning that even low daily doses could accumulate over time and contribute to reproductive toxicity and increased cancer risk.
Calls for Greater Transparency and Regulation
This marks the first comprehensive South African study to assess chemical contamination in menstrual products sold locally. The research team included PhD candidate Janine Blignaut, Dr Gabre Kemp from the Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry, and Professors Elizabeth Erasmus, Deon Visser and Marietjie Schutte-Smith from the Department of Chemistry.
The findings have intensified calls for stricter regulation of menstrual products, clearer ingredient disclosure and further independent research into safer alternatives. Advocates argue that consumers deserve full transparency about what is in products designed for intimate and repeated use.
As awareness grows, the study is likely to fuel broader discussions about menstrual health, product safety and the need for stronger consumer protections in South Africa.
