Breakthrough UFS Research Exposes Hidden Risks in Everyday Menstrual Products

The University of the Free State (UFS) has made headlines with a pioneering study that uncovers the presence of hormone-disrupting chemicals in menstrual products commonly used across South Africa. Published on February 9, 2026, in the journal Science of the Total Environment, this research marks the first comprehensive analysis of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in sanitary pads and panty liners sold locally. Led by a multidisciplinary team from UFS's Departments of Chemistry, Microbiology, and Biochemistry, the findings challenge assumptions about product safety and highlight the critical role of university-led research in protecting public health.

Menstrual products are essential for millions of South African women and girls, yet their direct contact with sensitive vaginal mucosa raises unique exposure concerns. The UFS study tested 16 popular brands of sanitary pads and eight panty liner types purchased from major retailers, revealing contamination in every single sample. This revelation comes at a time when higher education institutions like UFS are increasingly focusing on real-world applications of scientific inquiry to address societal challenges.

The Team Driving Discovery at University of the Free State

At the heart of this research is PhD candidate Janine Blignaut, alongside Dr. Gabre Kemp from the Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry, Prof. Elizabeth Erasmus, Prof. Deon Visser (Head of the Department of Chemistry), and Prof. Marietjie Schutte-Smith. Their collaborative effort exemplifies how higher education fosters interdisciplinary innovation, blending chemistry, biochemistry, and environmental toxicology to tackle public health issues.

Prof. Visser emphasized the study's urgency: "Our study highlights a concerning reality regarding the safety of menstrual products. Many sanitary pads and liners contain hormone-disrupting chemicals, even when they are marketed as being 'free from harmful chemicals'." This work not only advances academic knowledge but also positions UFS as a leader in women's health research. For those inspired by such impactful studies, opportunities abound in South Africa's academic sector through platforms like research jobs and research assistant jobs.

Detailed Methodology: Rigorous Testing for EDCs

The UFS team employed advanced chromatographic analysis to detect and quantify 20 specific EDCs: nine phthalates, five parabens, and six bisphenols, including bisphenol A (BPA). Samples were sourced from everyday retail outlets to reflect real consumer exposure. Daily dermal exposure doses were estimated, ranging from 2 to 20 ng/kg body weight per day for normal skin absorption, escalating to 8–80 ng/kg for mucosal tissues—highlighting the heightened risk due to the products' intimate application.

This step-by-step approach—sample collection, extraction, instrumental analysis, and risk assessment—ensures robust, reproducible results. Such methodological precision is a hallmark of university research, training the next generation of scientists equipped for careers in toxicology and environmental health. Explore related paths via higher ed career advice.

Shocking Key Findings: Contamination Across All Tested Products

Every sanitary pad and panty liner contained at least two EDCs, defying expectations of safety. Here's a breakdown:

• Sanitary Pads (16 brands): Bisphenols in 100%, parabens in 85%, phthalates in 50%.
• Panty Liners (8 types): Phthalates in 100%, bisphenols in 75%, parabens in 75%.

Bisphenols dominated pads, likely from adhesives, while phthalates prevailed in liners from plastic components. Even products labeled 'chemical-free' tested positive, as these substances migrate during manufacturing, such as heat-pressing.

These results underscore the ubiquity of EDCs, prompting calls for transparency in South African manufacturing.

Understanding Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals: Phthalates, Bisphenols, and Parabens Explained

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) interfere with hormone systems, mimicking or blocking natural hormones like estrogen. Phthalates soften plastics; bisphenols (e.g., BPA) harden them; parabens preserve products. In menstrual items, they leach via skin contact, but mucosal absorption amplifies risks.

Health implications include hormonal imbalances, fertility issues, endometriosis, reproductive toxicity, and elevated cancer risks (e.g., breast, ovarian). Cumulative lifetime exposure—from puberty through menopause—magnifies these threats, especially for vulnerable groups like adolescents.Read the full UFS study.

Regulatory Landscape in South Africa: Gaps and Needed Reforms

South Africa's SABS standard SANS 1043 focuses on microbiology and absorbency, ignoring EDCs. No mandates exist for chemical disclosure in menstrual products, unlike BPA bans in baby bottles. This regulatory void leaves consumers unprotected, as noted by Prof. Visser: "SABS does have the SANS 1043 test, but it only tests for microbiology, absorbency, etc. According to our knowledge, there are no standards regarding the chemicals we observed."

The study advocates for mandatory labeling, EDC limits, and ongoing monitoring—aligning with global pushes for safer consumer goods.

Global Perspective: Echoes from International Research

The UFS findings align with worldwide studies. A 2023 systematic review detected phthalates, phenols, and parabens in menstrual products globally. U.S. research identified similar contaminants in feminine hygiene items, estimating significant dermal exposure. Europe's CHEMTrust warns of pesticides and plastics in disposables. These patterns affirm menstrual products as an overlooked EDC vector, spurring calls for harmonized standards.

South Africa's study fills a regional data gap, enhancing global discourse. For researchers eyeing international collaborations, check postdoc opportunities.

Practical Advice for Consumers: Navigating Safer Choices

• Seek OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification, verifying absence of harmful substances.Learn more about OEKO-TEX
• Opt for reusables like cloth pads, reducing waste and exposure.
• Wash hands post-change; diversify products to minimize single-source risk.
• Support brands transparent about ingredients.

These steps empower informed decisions amid uncertainty.

UFS Innovations: Pioneering Antimicrobial Reusable Pads

UFS isn't stopping at detection—they're developing reusable sanitary pads with antimicrobial 'superpowers.' This initiative addresses access barriers in underserved areas, blending sustainability with safety. Such applied research showcases higher ed's translational impact, inspiring careers in biomedical engineering via higher ed jobs.

Broader Implications for Public Health and Higher Education

This UFS publication elevates menstrual health equity discussions, particularly in South Africa where period poverty persists. It underscores universities' role in policy advocacy and community health. Future studies may quantify long-term exposures, informing regulations.

For academics and students, it highlights toxicology's relevance. Link your passion to purpose at university jobs or rate my professor for insights into mentors like those at UFS.

Photo by Reproductive Health Supplies Coalition on Unsplash

Looking Ahead: Calls for Action and Research Horizons

Prof. Visser calls this a "wake-up call." Stakeholders—government, industry, NGOs—must collaborate on reforms. UFS urges full chemical disclosure and EDC bans. Ongoing monitoring and consumer education are vital.

As South Africa advances, university research like this drives change. Stay informed and engaged; explore higher ed career advice, rate my professor, higher ed jobs, university jobs, and post your openings at post a job.