Low health risk from chemicals in menstrual products, says Motsoaledi

Johannesburg
PM

Puleng Maake

8 March 2026 | 11:21

Motsoaledi was addressing a media briefing to respond to a study by the UFS, which tested 16 sanitary pads and seven pantyliners bought online.

Low health risk from chemicals in menstrual products, says Motsoaledi

The Social Cluster, co-chaired by the Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, briefing the media to clarify the health and regulatory implications and also address some of the concerns raised by individuals and organised groups regarding the findings. Pictures: GCIS

Minister of Health Aaron Motsoaledi said the occurrence of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in some sanitary pads and pantyliners is not a new concern and poses a very small health risk when levels remain within safety limits.

He was on Sunday morning addressing a media briefing to respond to a study by the University of the Free State (UFS), published on 25 February 2026, which tested 16 sanitary pads and seven pantyliners bought online. 

That study found small amounts of endocrine-disrupting chemicals.

ALSO READ: Consumer Commission probes sanitary pad brands over harmful chemicals

The research paper concluded that menstrual products could be a significant but often overlooked source of exposure.

However, Motsoaledi stressed that these chemicals are commonly found in everyday environments.

“Previous published studies have confirmed that small amounts of these endocrine disruptors are present in menstrual health products. The presence of EDC’S has been known for over a hundred years.”

Get the whole picture 💡

Take a look at the topic timeline for all related articles.

Trending News