The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has commenced investigations into the safety of disposable sanitary pads following concerns over potentially harmful chemicals in some products.
The agency said it has begun assessing selected sanitary pads with valid marketing authorisation for the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), while also investigating a complaint involving a specific sanitary pad brand. Samples from the product have been taken for laboratory tests, including microbial-limit and skin-irritation assessments.
The investigation follows concerns arising from a 2024 study by researchers from the Nigerian Defence Academy and the Air Force Institute of Technology. The study examined 65 disposable sanitary pad samples and reported the detection of multiple VOCs in some of the products.
The researchers said some of the detected compounds were associated with potential health risks and called for appropriate testing of sanitary pads before they are distributed in the Nigerian market.
NAFDAC’s latest action is aimed at generating regulatory evidence on the safety of the products and determining whether any further measures are required. The agency’s investigation is ongoing.
