NAFDAC begins testing sanitary pads for volatile compounds after safety concerns

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has launched an investigation into the safety of disposable sanitary pads in Nigeria following concerns about potentially harmful chemicals in some products. The agency said it has begun assessing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in selected sanitary pads that have valid marketing authorisation.

The investigation follows concerns raised by a 2024 study examining 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, analysed 65 samples and detected 20 VOCs. NAFDAC said it is also investigating a complaint involving a specific sanitary pad brand and has collected samples for laboratory testing.

“A complaint received on a named sanitary pad is currently being investigated as the product has been sampled for laboratory evaluation for safety including microbial limit and skin irritation tests,” the agency said. NAFDAC explained that sanitary pads are classified as Class I medical devices and are subject to regulatory requirements covering registration, laboratory evaluation, manufacturing processes and post-market surveillance.

According to the agency, disposable sanitary pads are evaluated using the applicable Nigerian Industrial Standard, NIS 291, developed by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria. NAFDAC also rejected claims that it does not conduct laboratory testing on sanitary pads.

“The agency conducts laboratory evaluation of Disposable Sanitary Pad products submitted for regulatory approval and those sampled from post-market surveillance activities,” it said. The agency added that manufacturers are required to comply with applicable quality-management requirements, while product labels are reviewed to ensure consumers receive information necessary for safe use.

As part of its investigation into VOCs, NAFDAC said it is assessing selected registered products and examining how other countries, including South Korea, regulate and monitor such compounds in menstrual products. The review could result in additional regulatory measures, including VOC testing and monitoring, restrictions on substances considered to be of regulatory concern, disclosure requirements for fragrances and other relevant ingredients, and stronger post-market surveillance.

NAFDAC stressed, however, that any new regulatory requirements would be introduced on the basis of scientific evidence, risk assessments and consultations with relevant stakeholders. The agency said registered sanitary pads listed in its Greenbook remain subject to regulatory monitoring throughout their life cycle. NAFDAC added that it is reviewing emerging scientific evidence concerning menstrual products and would strengthen its regulatory framework where necessary.

The agency said protecting public health remains its priority and assured consumers that concerns involving menstrual health products would be evaluated through scientific evidence, laboratory testing and regulatory investigations. The development comes amid renewed concerns on social media about sanitary pad safety, with some women reporting itching, burning sensations and other reactions after using certain brands.