Recent fears about the safety of sanitary pads and pantyliners have been alleviated by health authorities, who confirm that these menstrual products are safe for use. According to the Department of Health, a study by the University of Free State found small amounts of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in some sanitary pads and pantyliners, but experts say the concentrations are very low and do not automatically translate into harm in the human body.
The study, which was done in South Africa, found EDCs in 16 sanitary pads and seven pantyliners purchased online, including some marketed as chemical-free. However, Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi explained that EDCs are chemicals that disrupt the endocrine system and are found in low concentrations in many everyday products, including food, household items, and personal care products.
Safety of Menstrual Products
Despite the presence of EDCs in sanitary pads, the Health Minister reassured the public that the findings do not signify a health risk. The President of the South African Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (SASOG), Professor Ismail Bhorat, also emphasized that the EDCs only have the potential to interfere with the actions of hormones, and there has been no established risk for the presence of these chemicals.
The low EDC exposure from sanitary products is due to small, sub-permissible concentrations and the study’s small, less generalisable sample size. As a result, experts have concluded that it is safe to use menstrual products as they are, and there is no need for a change in the usual practice of what is being done now.
Expert Opinion
Professor Ntobeko Ntusi, President and CEO of the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), highlighted that the findings of small EDC quantities in sanitary pads have not been causally linked with any adverse clinical events. The experts also noted that the widespread incidental presence of these chemicals is not unique to sanitary products and does not signify a health risk.
Some of the key points to note about EDCs and menstrual products include:
- EDCs are found in low concentrations in many everyday products, including food, household items, and personal care products.
- The concentrations of EDCs in menstrual products are very low and do not automatically translate into harm in the human body.
- There is no established risk for the presence of EDCs in menstrual products.
- The low EDC exposure from sanitary products is due to small, sub-permissible concentrations and the study’s small, less generalisable sample size.
In conclusion, the safety of sanitary pads and pantyliners has been confirmed by health authorities, and experts say that the presence of EDCs in these products does not signify a health risk. As always, it is essential to follow proper hygiene practices and use menstrual products as directed to minimize any potential risks.
