A groundbreaking study from the University of the Free State (UFS) has uncovered the presence of hormone-disrupting chemicals in popular menstrual products sold across South Africa, sparking urgent discussions on consumer safety, regulatory oversight, and public health. Published in the journal Science of the Total Environment, the research highlights how everyday sanitary pads and panty liners—used by millions of women and girls—may expose users to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) like phthalates, parabens, and bisphenols. These substances, often unintentional byproducts of manufacturing, raise concerns about long-term health effects, particularly given the intimate and repeated contact with sensitive mucosal tissues.
The findings come at a critical time when South Africa grapples with period poverty, where access to affordable menstrual products remains a challenge for many, especially in underserved communities. This UFS-led initiative not only sheds light on hidden risks but also underscores the vital role of South African universities in advancing women's health research and informing policy.
The UFS Research Team and Study Origins
Leading the effort was Janine Blignaut, a PhD candidate in the Department of Chemistry at UFS, alongside Dr. Gabre Kemp from Microbiology and Biochemistry, Prof. Elizabeth Erasmus, Prof. Deon Visser (Head of Chemistry), and Prof. Marietjie Schutte-Smith. The project stemmed from broader conversations at UFS about menstrual health access, initially sparked by a radio discussion on girls missing school due to lack of products. The team aimed to assess whether commonly available items posed additional risks through chemical contamination.
This interdisciplinary collaboration exemplifies how South African higher education institutions like UFS are tackling real-world issues. By combining analytical chemistry expertise with biochemical insights, they provided the first comprehensive data on EDC levels in local menstrual products, filling a significant research gap in the region.
Detailed Methodology: How the Analysis Was Conducted
Researchers purchased 16 brands of sanitary pads and seven to eight panty liners from major South African retailers, selecting popular, widely available options including those labeled as 'free from harmful chemicals.' Samples underwent rigorous chromatographic analysis to detect and quantify 20 specific EDCs: nine phthalates, five parabens, and six bisphenols (such as BPA).
The process involved extracting chemicals from the products' layers, where they might migrate from plastics, adhesives, or during heat-pressing manufacturing. Daily dermal exposure doses were estimated based on typical usage—several hours daily for 3-5 days monthly over decades—accounting for higher absorption through vaginal mucosa compared to skin.
This methodical approach ensured robust, reproducible results, setting a benchmark for future studies at South African universities.
Alarmingly High Detection Rates: What the Data Reveals
Every single product tested contained at least two EDCs, defying many 'clean' marketing claims. Detection frequencies were striking:
- Bisphenols: 100% of sanitary pads, 75% of panty liners
- Parabens: 81-85% of pads, 75% of liners
- Phthalates: 50% of pads, 100% of liners
Phthalates dominated in liners, bisphenols in pads. While exact concentrations varied, the ubiquity underscores manufacturing contamination risks.
Prof. Deon Visser noted, 'The heat-pressing process can cause these chemicals to move into the top layer that touches your skin,' emphasizing unintended transfer.
Explaining the Culprits: Phthalates, Parabens, and Bisphenols
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) mimic or block hormones like estrogen, interfering with reproductive, metabolic, and developmental processes. Phthalates, used in plastics for flexibility, are linked to reduced fertility and genital malformations. Parabens, preservatives, may promote breast cancer by estrogenic activity. Bisphenols, like BPA in coatings, associate with obesity, diabetes, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
In menstrual products, these enter via adhesives, fragrances, or packaging. Mucosal contact amplifies absorption—up to 10 times faster than skin—leading to higher systemic exposure over a lifetime.PubMed abstract
Photo by Brent Ninaber on Unsplash
Potential Health Risks: From Hormonal Imbalance to Long-Term Concerns
While single exposures seem low, cumulative effects from decades of use worry experts. Linked risks include endometriosis, infertility, early puberty, thyroid disruption, and cancers (breast, ovarian). In pregnancy, EDCs correlate with preterm birth and low birth weight. For South African women, where menstruation spans 40+ years, this amplifies vulnerability, especially amid rising endocrine disorders.
UFS stresses no immediate panic—daily doses below acute limits—but calls for caution on chronic exposure. Prof. Visser urged, 'This study serves as a wake-up call.'Full study DOI
Global Context: Not Unique to South Africa
Similar findings emerge worldwide. A 2020 US study detected phthalates in 90% of pads, parabens and BPA widely. China's research showed 40% EDCs from food but pads contribute. A 2023 systematic review confirmed phthalates, phenols, parabens in global products. UFS data aligns, positioning South African academia in international discourse.
Menstrual Hygiene in South Africa: Access and Poverty Challenges
Period poverty affects 30-60% of girls; one-third miss school weekly without products. Government provides free pads in schools, but coverage gaps persist in rural/low-income areas. UFS research intersects here: safer, affordable alternatives needed amid chemical risks.
UFS Innovations and Commitment to Menstrual Health
Beyond detection, UFS develops reusable pads with antimicrobial properties, addressing access and safety. This reflects universities' role in solutions—from labs to policy—fostering research ecosystems in South Africa.
Government and Industry Responses
The National Consumer Commission probes nine suppliers post-study. Health Minister assured safety but endorsed further tests. UFS position statement clarifies scientific scope, urging transparency without alarm.
Practical Recommendations for Safer Choices
- Opt for OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified products
- Choose unscented, organic cotton reusables
- Advocate for chemical disclosure via petitions
- Support university research funding
Prof. Visser advises reusables for reduced exposure.
Future Outlook: Calls for Regulation and Research
SABS lacks EDC standards; advocacy pushes updates. More longitudinal studies needed on SA exposure. Universities like UFS lead, training researchers for women's health. This could spur innovation, safer imports, and equity.
In summary, the UFS study illuminates risks while empowering informed choices and policy change in South African higher education's research vanguard.