UFS Researchers Uncover Endocrine Disruptors in South African Menstrual Products

A groundbreaking study from the University of the Free State (UFS) has thrust the issue of endocrine disruptors in sanitary pads into the national spotlight in South Africa. Published in the prestigious journal Science of the Total Environment, the research reveals the widespread presence of hormone-disrupting chemicals in commonly used menstrual products, prompting immediate regulatory action. This investigation not only highlights a critical public health concern but also underscores UFS's pivotal role in advancing research on consumer product safety within South Africa's higher education landscape.

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), also known as endocrine disruptors, are substances that interfere with the body's hormonal systems. These synthetic compounds can mimic or block hormones, leading to developmental, reproductive, neurological, and immune disorders. In the context of menstrual products, which come into direct and prolonged contact with sensitive vaginal mucosa—a highly absorbent tissue—the potential for exposure is amplified.

The UFS team's work began years ago, inspired by discussions on radio about the lack of access to feminine hygiene products for young girls in South Africa. This evolved into a comprehensive analysis addressing both accessibility and safety, reflecting UFS's commitment to tackling real-world challenges through interdisciplinary science in chemistry, microbiology, and biochemistry.

Methodology: How UFS Conducted the Rigorous Analysis

The study meticulously examined 16 brands of sanitary pads and seven panty liners, all popular and affordably priced (R17 to R32) products purchased from South African retail outlets, including online stores. Researchers focused exclusively on the top sheet—the layer in direct contact with the skin—shredding samples and extracting them in methanol for analysis.

Using advanced techniques like high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) for parabens and bisphenols, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) for phthalates, the team targeted 20 specific EDCs: nine phthalates (e.g., DBP, DiBP, BBP, DCHP, DnOP), five parabens (e.g., methylparaben, propylparaben), and six bisphenols (e.g., BPA, BPS, BPF, BPAP). Quality assurance included blanks, replicates, and spiked recoveries (68-77%), ensuring robust data with limits of quantification as low as 0.00006 ppm for some compounds.

To assess exposure risk, daily exposure doses (DEDs) were calculated using the formula: DED = (concentration × mass of top sheet × number of products used per day × absorption factor) / body weight. Assuming an average South African woman weighs 75 kg, uses six products daily, with absorption rates of 0.5-10% for normal skin or higher (20-100%) for mucosal tissue, DEDs ranged from 2-20 ng/kg-bw/day under normal scenarios, escalating to 8-80 ng/kg-bw/day in high-absorption cases. Notably, bisphenol levels sometimes exceeded tolerable daily intake (TDI) thresholds by 60-100 fold.

Key Findings: Every Product Contained Multiple EDCs

The results were alarming: every single sanitary pad and panty liner tested contained at least two target EDCs. Detection frequencies (DFs) were strikingly high:

• Bisphenols: 100% in pads (mean 63.31 ng/g; BPA dominant at 38.35 ng/g, DF 88%), 75% in liners (mean 66.68 ng/g).
• Parabens: 85% in pads (mean 6.420 ng/g; propylparaben prominent), 75% in liners (mean 12.98 ng/g).
• Phthalates: 50% in pads (mean 58.95 ng/g), 100% in liners (mean 110.04 ng/g; DBP and DCHP common).

Even products marketed as 'organic' or 'free from harmful chemicals' were contaminated, likely due to unintentional migration from plastics, adhesives, dyes, or manufacturing processes like heat-pressing, which pushes chemicals to the skin-contact layer. Phthalates dominated liners, bisphenols pads—a pattern suggesting material-specific sources.

Health Risks: Cumulative Exposure Over a Lifetime

While individual daily doses appear low, the cumulative effect from monthly use over decades poses significant risks. EDCs like bisphenol A (BPA) mimic estrogen, phthalates disrupt testosterone, and parabens act as weak estrogens. Linked health issues include:

• Hormonal imbalances leading to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disruption.
• Reproductive problems: infertility, endometriosis, reduced ovarian reserve.
• Developmental effects: early puberty in girls, genital malformations in boys (via maternal exposure).
• Cancer risks: breast, ovarian, prostate.

Vulvar skin's thin barrier and high vascularity enhance absorption 10-100 times over regular skin. In South Africa, where menstruation affects millions of women and girls—many in low-income households relying on affordable disposables—these findings amplify equity concerns.Read the full UFS study details.

Regulatory Wake-Up: NCC Investigates Nine Major Suppliers

In swift response, South Africa's National Consumer Commission (NCC) launched probes into nine suppliers: Kimberly-Clark (Kotex), Procter & Gamble (Always), Anna Organics, Comfitex, Flo, Johnson & Johnson (Stayfree), Lil-lets, Essity (Libresse), and My Time. Triggered by the UFS study, the inquiry assesses compliance with Consumer Protection Act sections 24 (quality/safety) and 55 (fit for purpose).

Suppliers must submit lab tests; non-compliance could lead to recalls under section 60. The Democratic Alliance (DA) also urged action, emphasizing risks to millions of users. Current SABS standards (SANS 1043) focus on absorbency and microbiology, ignoring EDCs—highlighting a regulatory gap UFS calls to address.

Photo by Julia Fiander on Unsplash

UFS Stance: Science Informs, Doesn't Alarm

UFS emphasizes no immediate danger or need to stop using products; levels aren't acutely toxic, and the study doesn't prove causation. It's peer-reviewed data urging transparency: full chemical disclosure, even below limits, and alignment with international standards. Prof Deon Visser, Head of Chemistry, notes: "Our study highlights a concerning reality... Many contain hormone-disrupting chemicals, even 'free from harmful chemicals'." The team is pioneering reusable pads with antimicrobial properties to offer safe alternatives.

Global Parallels: EDCs in Menstrual Products Worldwide

This isn't unique to South Africa. A 2023 systematic review found phthalates, parabens, and bisphenols in global menstrual products. US studies detected VOCs and PFAS in tampons/pads; eco-friendly reusables sometimes fared worse. EU regulations ban certain phthalates; OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certifies low-chemical textiles—a benchmark UFS recommends.

Innovations and Safer Choices: Reusables and Certifications

Consumers can prioritize OEKO-TEX certified pads (e.g., Gentle Day Organic) or reusables like menstrual cups (medical-grade silicone), period underwear, or cloth pads. UFS's ongoing project develops antimicrobial reusables—hygienic, absorbent, eco-friendly—addressing both safety and access for underserved communities.

In South Africa, brands like Hina Ya Handunge offer certified options. Transition tips: Wash reusables in hot water with vinegar; store dry. These reduce waste (disposables contribute 20,000 tons landfill waste yearly) and chemical exposure.

Equity and Menstrual Health in South Africa

Period poverty affects 1 in 10 South African girls, skipping school. EDCs exacerbate vulnerabilities for low-income women using cheapest pads. UFS research bridges this, promoting equity via safe, affordable innovations. Links to higher ed: Careers in chemistry/public health via higher ed jobs or rate professors at Rate My Professor.

Future Outlook: Calls for Regulation and Research

UFS advocates SABS updates for EDC testing, mandatory labeling. NCC outcomes could set precedents. Broader implications: Boosts SA's research profile, attracting funding/talent. Explore UFS opportunities or SA university jobs.

Photo by ludovico di giorgi on Unsplash

Stakeholder Perspectives and Next Steps

Industry urges calm; experts like Prof Visser push transparency. Public reaction: Social media buzz on alternatives. UFS's work exemplifies higher ed impact—check career advice for research roles.

In conclusion, the UFS study catalyzes change for safer menstrual health. Stay informed, choose wisely, and consider opportunities in South African higher ed at University Jobs, Higher Ed Jobs, or Rate My Professor. Post your job at Post a Job.