Study Reveals That Sanitary Pads Increase Cancer And Infertility Risks

Promoted as menstrual hygiene products, widely used sanitary napkins are said to have chemicals, which could result in increased cancer and infertility risks, among women.

Recently a study revealed that using sanitary napkins could be a dangerous option due to hazardous health effects.  A new study conducted by an environmental non profitable government organisation (NGO) Toxics Link found that cancer causing contaminants are found in widely available sanitary pads sold in India.  This is an alarming discovery, especially considering that almost three in every four teenage women in India use sanitary napkins.

Dr, Amit, one of the investigators in the programme with the NGO said, “It is shocking to find numerous harmful chemicals in commonly available sanitary products, including toxic chemicals like carcinogens, reproductive toxins, endocrine disruptors, and allergens.”

The study which was a part of the International Pollutants Elimination Network tested ten brands of sanitary pads (including organic and inorganic) available across India.  After the tests and research, the organisation found traces of phthalates and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in all the samples, making it unhealthy for women.

Adding to the research, Dr. Aakanksha Mahrotra, a part of the organisation and the study said, “As a mucous membrane, the vagina can secrete and absorb chemicals at a higher rate than the skin.” 

What is more dangerous to this aspect and manufacture of sanitary napkins in India is that, like Europe, India does not have any governing body including regulations but is subject to Bureau of India Standards (BIS) which have nothing specific on chemicals.

Ms. Priti Banthia Mahesh, the Chief Programme Coordinator of Toxics Link said, “The latest National Family Health Survey revealed that nearly 64 per cent of women aged 15-24 years use sanitary pads.  Demography and education also determine the usage of pads. It is inferred that a more prosperous society has a higher usage of pads (sic.)”

Meanwhile, the Indian sanitary pads market reached a value of USD 618.4 million in 2021. It is expected that this market will reach USD 1.2 billion by 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 11.3% from 2022 to 2027, according to the IMARC group.

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