Safety Alert: NAFDAC Launches Tests On Sanitary Pads For Volatile Compounds

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has commenced an investigation into the safety of disposable sanitary pads sold in Nigeria following concerns over the presence of potentially harmful chemicals in some menstrual products.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the agency has begun assessing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in selected sanitary pad products that have valid marketing authorisation in the country.

The investigation follows concerns raised by a 2024 study on VOCs in disposable sanitary pads sold in Nigeria. The research, conducted by researchers from the Nigerian Defence Academy and published in the Bayero Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences, examined 65 samples and identified 20 VOCs.

NAFDAC also disclosed that it is investigating a complaint involving a particular sanitary pad brand. Samples of the product have been obtained for laboratory analysis, including tests for microbial limits and potential skin irritation.

The agency explained that sanitary pads are classified as Class I medical devices and are therefore subject to regulatory requirements covering product registration, laboratory evaluation, manufacturing standards and post-market surveillance.

NAFDAC said disposable sanitary pads are assessed in line with the applicable Nigerian Industrial Standard, NIS 291, developed by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria.

The agency also dismissed claims that it does not conduct laboratory tests on sanitary pad products, stating that such evaluations are carried out both on products submitted for regulatory approval and samples obtained during post-market surveillance.

According to NAFDAC, manufacturers are required to meet applicable quality-management standards, while product labels are reviewed to ensure consumers receive relevant information needed for safe use.

As part of the ongoing VOC investigation, the agency said it is evaluating selected registered products and studying how other countries, including South Korea, regulate and monitor volatile compounds in menstrual products.

The review could lead to additional regulatory measures, such as introducing VOC testing and monitoring, restricting substances considered to pose regulatory concerns, requiring greater disclosure of fragrances and other ingredients, and strengthening post-market surveillance.

NAFDAC stressed that any new requirements would be based on scientific evidence, risk assessments and consultations with relevant stakeholders.

The agency further stated that sanitary pad products listed in its Greenbook remain subject to regulatory monitoring throughout their life cycle. It added that emerging scientific evidence relating to menstrual products is being reviewed and that its regulatory framework would be strengthened where necessary.

NAFDAC said protecting public health remains its priority and assured consumers that concerns involving menstrual health products would be assessed through scientific investigations, laboratory testing and regulatory processes.

The development comes amid renewed discussions on social media concerning the safety of some sanitary pad brands, with some women reporting symptoms such as itching, burning sensations and other reactions after using certain products. However, such individual reports do not by themselves establish that a particular product or chemical caused the reported symptoms.