The team analyzed sanitary napkins from 16 brands and eight types of mini wipes commonly available in South African retail stores. (Photo: Unsplash)
Millions of South African women use sanitary napkins and mini wipes every month without paying much attention to their exact composition. However, new research by the University of the Free State (UF) suggests that these products may contain hormone-disrupting chemicals – even when they are marketed as “free from harmful chemicals”.
The research report is in the international journal Science of the Total Environment published showing that every single sanitary napkin and mini-wipe tested contained at least two so-called endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
“Our research highlights a disturbing reality regarding the safety of menstrual products,” says prof. Deon Visser, head of the Department of Chemistry at the UFS.
“Many sanitary napkins and mini wipes contain hormone-disrupting chemicals, even when they are marketed as ‘free from harmful chemicals’. This creates a misperception among consumers that these products are completely safe, while our data shows that this is not necessarily the case.”
The research was undertaken by an interdisciplinary team that included Janine Blignaut, a PhD candidate, dr. Gabre Kemp from the Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry, as well as prof. Elizabeth Erasmus, prof. Visser and Prof. including Marietjie Schutte-Smith from the Department of Chemistry.
Chemicals found in every product
The team analyzed sanitary napkins from 16 brands and eight types of mini wipes commonly available in South African retail stores. The focus was on three groups of endocrine-disrupting chemicals, namely phthalates, bisphenols (including BPA) and parabens.
(Foto: Unsplash)
The findings show widespread contamination in all the products tested. Every single wipe and miniwipe contained at least two of the targeted chemicals.
Bisphenols were found in 100% of the sanitary napkins and in 75% of the mini wipes. Parabens were found in more than 81% of the wipes and in 75% of the mini wipes. Phthalates were present in all the mini wipes tested and in 50% of the sanitary napkins.
According to Visser, these substances are not necessarily added on purpose.
“Our research indicates that in many cases these chemicals are not intended as ingredients, but probably migrate into the product from plastics, adhesives and manufacturing processes.
“The heat pressing process during manufacturing can cause these chemicals to move to the top layer – precisely the layer that comes into contact with the skin and mucous membranes. This means that the part of the product that lies directly against the body can potentially cause the highest exposure.”
Why repeated exposure matters
Although the levels measured in a single product may seem low at first glance, according to the researchers, the concern lies with cumulative exposure over time.
Menstrual products come into direct contact with mucous tissue, which can absorb chemicals faster and more directly than normal skin. Most individuals use these products several days a month – over decades.
“When you consider that many users from their teenage years to middle age use these products monthly, we are talking about hundreds, even thousands of days of exposure,” says Visser.
“Even though the concentrations in a single product seem low, repeated exposure over time can lead to a build-up of chemicals in the body, linked to hormonal imbalances, fertility problems, endometriosis and even cancer.”
He emphasizes that the real danger is not always immediately visible.
“It is precisely the long-term impact that worries us. The effects of these substances are not always immediately visible, but can be subtle and only manifest years later.”
Gaps in regulation and disclosure
The research also highlights possible gaps in chemical regulation in South Africa.
“The SABS does have the SANS 1043 test, but that standard (test) focuses mainly on microbiological aspects, absorbency and similar properties. According to our knowledge, there are currently no specific standards that regulate the chemicals we observed,” says Visser,
He further emphasized that manufacturers are not obliged to disclose the complete chemical composition of menstrual products. “We believe manufacturers should disclose all chemicals in their products, even if they fall below daily limits. Transparency is essential so that consumers can make informed decisions.
“A ‘clean’ label should not simply be a marketing term, but should be backed by clear standards and independent testing.”
For consumers looking to reduce their risk, Visser suggests looking for the international OEKO-TEX Standard 100 verification on packaging. He also recommends reusable alternatives.
In the meantime, the UFS team itself is working on exciting innovations to solve the problem.
“Our team is developing a reusable sanitary napkin with ‘superpowers’ – which includes antimicrobial properties.”
The researchers hope that this research will serve as a catalyst for change.
“This research serves as a wake-up call that current regulations and ‘clean’ labels in South Africa may not offer the protection that consumers expect.”