On International Women’s Day, the South African government, alongside the World Health Organization (WHO), convened a critical media briefing to address public concerns triggered by a recent University of Free State (UFS) study revealing low levels of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in sanitary pads and panty liners.
Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi emphasised that the findings show no clinical harm, urging calm amid widespread panic fuelled by social media. WHO Representative Dr. Shenaaz El-Halabi stated, “Public health benefit should never be lost without clear evidence of harm,” highlighting the essential role of menstrual products in women’s dignity and universal health coverage.
Joined by regulators from SAPRA and the National Consumer Commission, experts affirmed that EDCs are ubiquitous in everyday items, with exposure from pads minimal and within safe limits. No product recalls are needed, they said, based on global studies showing no causal links to diseases.
The briefing called for responsible media reporting to prevent misinformation. Officials pledged ongoing surveillance and education through the National Sanitary Dignity Framework, ensuring access for girls and women. This collaborative response underscores South Africa’s commitment to evidence-based public health communication.
