The National Consumer Commission says further investigation is needed to verify recent findings by the University of the Free State, which indicated that some sanitary products sold locally may contain hormone-disrupting chemicals.
The study, conducted by the university’s Microbiology Department, tested 16 popular brands of sanitary pads and pantyliners. Researchers detected substances known to interfere with the body’s endocrine system, including phthalates, parabens, and bisphenols.
Deon Visser, Head of Chemistry at the University of the Free State, explained that these chemicals can mimic natural hormones in the body. “They look very similar to hormones in the endocrine system and mimic them in the body,” he said. Visser noted that such chemicals are not unique to menstrual products and are commonly found in plastics, perfumes, and other personal care items, where they are used as plasticisers, antibacterials, preservatives, and stabilisers.
Estrogen, the primary female sex hormone produced mainly by the ovaries, regulates the menstrual cycle and supports reproductive, bone, cardiovascular, and brain health. Visser warned that the body may struggle to distinguish between natural hormones and synthetic chemical mimics. “They unfortunately are in these products, and it’s all over the world. It’s not just a South African problem,” he said.
The National Consumer Commission has indicated that broader testing of menstrual products will be conducted to ensure consumer safety before any decisions on recalls are made.
Visser recommended silicone-based menstrual cups and reusable sanitary pads as safer alternatives, though he emphasized the importance of proper sterilization. “The silicone-based cups work well. The problem is that you need a microwave oven and clean water to clean them, otherwise you are looking at trouble again,” he said.