The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has commenced an investigation into the safety of disposable sanitary pads marketed in Nigeria amid concerns over the presence of potentially harmful chemicals in some products.
The agency said it is currently assessing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in selected sanitary pad brands that have valid marketing authorisation in the country.
The development follows concerns raised by a 2024 study conducted by researchers from the Nigerian Defence Academy and published in the Bayero Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences. The study examined 65 sanitary pad samples sold in Nigeria and reportedly detected 20 different VOCs.
NAFDAC also disclosed that it is investigating a complaint involving a particular sanitary pad brand, with samples already obtained for laboratory analysis.
“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.
According to NAFDAC, disposable sanitary pads are classified as Class I medical devices and must meet regulatory requirements covering product registration, laboratory assessment, manufacturing standards and post-market surveillance.
The agency said the products are evaluated in line with the applicable Nigerian Industrial Standard, NIS 291, developed by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria.
NAFDAC also dismissed suggestions that it does not subject sanitary pads to laboratory testing before and after they enter the market.
“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 relevant quality-management standards, while product labels are reviewed to ensure consumers are provided with information necessary for the safe use of the products.
As part of its ongoing review of VOCs, NAFDAC said it is examining selected registered sanitary pad products and studying regulatory approaches adopted by other countries, including South Korea, in monitoring such substances in menstrual hygiene products.
The agency said the review could lead to additional regulatory measures, including the introduction of VOC testing and monitoring, restrictions on substances considered to pose regulatory concerns, disclosure of fragrances and other relevant ingredients, as well as enhanced post-market surveillance.
However, NAFDAC stressed that any additional requirements would be based on scientific evidence, risk assessments and consultations with relevant stakeholders.
The agency further stated that sanitary pads listed in its Greenbook remain subject to regulatory monitoring throughout their life cycle.
NAFDAC said it is also reviewing emerging scientific evidence on menstrual products and would strengthen its regulatory framework where necessary.
The agency reiterated that protection of public health remains its priority, assuring consumers that concerns surrounding menstrual health products would be addressed through scientific evaluation, laboratory testing and regulatory investigations.
The investigation comes amid renewed concerns on social media over sanitary pad safety, including reports from some women of itching, burning sensations and other reactions after using certain brands.
