NAFDAC Tests Sanitary Pads for Potentially Harmful Chemicals After Safety Concerns

NAFDAC has begun testing selected disposable sanitary pads for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) following concerns about potentially harmful chemicals in menstrual products sold in Nigeria. The review follows a 2024 study that examined 65 sanitary-pad samples and detected 20 VOCs. The agency is also investigating a complaint about a specific brand and has taken samples for tests including microbial limits and skin-irritation checks. NAFDAC said sanitary pads are regulated as Class I medical devices and must meet Nigerian quality standards before approval. The agency may introduce additional VOC monitoring, ingredient-disclosure rules and stronger post-market surveillance if scientific evidence and risk assessments support them. Consumers who experience itching, burning or other reactions after using a sanitary pad are encouraged to report the product to the appropriate health and regulatory authorities.

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