Study reveals hormone-disrupting chemicals in all sanitary pads tested in South Africa

For many women and others who menstruate, sanitary pads and liners are essential items – trusted products used during a vulnerable time each month. Image:File picture: African News Agency (ANA) Archives A shocking new study conducted by the University of the Free State (UFS) has uncovered alarming findings: every sanitary pad and panty liner tested in South Africa contained hormone-disrupting chemicals. This revelation raises significant health concerns for millions of women and girls who depend on these everyday products.

The idea that they may contain hormone-disrupting chemicals is likely to cause alarm. “Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) were detected and quantified in all tested samples, with eachpad and linercontaining at least two of the target EDCs,” the university found. Scientists tested 16 sanitary pads and seven panty liners for 20 different endocrine-disrupting EDCs.

These include: These chemicals are known to interfere with hormones in the body. “I wonder what chemicals are in our period products and I wonder if it could be contributing to period symptoms we experience?” Asked menstrual health activist,Candice Chirwa. Toxic shock: every sanitary pad tested in SA found with hormone-disrupting chemicals. The study also found that 100% of panty liners contained phthalates and 100% of pads contained bisphenols.