By Emily Setona
QWAQWA – Women in the community have voiced concern following a national debate over chemical traces found in some sanitary pads, with calls growing for greater transparency from manufacturers.
The discussion follows research by University of the Free State that detected small quantities of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in several sanitary pads and pantyliners tested in South Africa.
Although the study did not prove the products cause disease, it raised questions about possible long-term exposure and the need for further investigation.
Faith Mooko (20) said the findings have left many young women uneasy about products they have used for years.
“I understand the chemicals were not intentionally added but occur during manufacturing,” she said. “Companies still have a responsibility to ensure their products are safe.”
“For six years I have been exposed to these products. That makes transparency and proper monitoring very important,” she said.
Mooko said she began using sanitary pads at 14 and has relied on them every month since.
She also questioned marketing claims by some brands.
“When products are advertised as chemical-free it raises concerns that the public may have been misled,” she added.
Community activist Fundiswa Mbongwe (41), who works with underprivileged children, said access to menstrual products remains a major challenge in many communities.
“We often distribute sanitary pads to disadvantaged girls. Sometimes we assist groups with about 15 girls,” she said.
Mbongwe said some cheaper brands available in stores have not caused problems for her, but she has noticed discomfort with others.
“With some brands the texture feels different and they are not as comfortable as they used to be,” she said.
She suggested that older-style maternity pads could provide an alternative.
“The long hospital-type pads are comfortable and easy to dispose of,” she said.
Meanwhile, Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has urged the public not to panic, saying the detected chemicals were present at very low levels.
Medical experts also note that endocrine-disrupting chemicals are common in many everyday products, including cosmetics, food packaging and clothing, and the research did not establish a link between sanitary pad use and conditions such as infertility, cancer or endometriosis.
Despite these reassurances, Mooko said the debate should push authorities and manufacturers toward greater accountability.
“Instead of dismissing concerns, there should be continuous safety checks on these products,” she said.
She added that alternatives such as menstrual cups remain expensive and inaccessible for many women.
“For most of us sanitary pads are the most affordable option. If there are chemical concerns, it becomes a serious issue for ordinary women.”
The debate has highlighted the delicate balance between public health, product affordability and the everyday realities faced by women who rely on menstrual hygiene products.
