Researchers at the University of the Free State, led by Prof Deon Visser, published a high-profile study showing that all sanitary pads and pantyliners tested — including some marketed as “chemical-free” — contained hormone-disrupting endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as phthalates, bisphenols (including BPA) and parabens. These chemicals can mimic or interfere with the body’s hormones and are linked to concerns like hormonal imbalance, reproductive disorders, and even cancer with long-term exposure. This is the best time to explore innovations like safer reusable pads.