02/03/2026
Important release which echoes my thoughts wrt the findings of recent research that was done by a SA university highlighting the presence of endocrine disrupting chemicals in sanitary wear.
1. Not new information. Just the first local research. "Association" does not = cause.
2. Unfortunately these chemicals are present in much more than sanitary wear... We should be trying to avoid toxic substances in all our products (foods, household cleaning agents, cosmetics) which we probably use most days of the month.
3. Yes menstrual cups/discs and panties are more environmentally friendly but is definitely not acceptable for everyone & often not affordable initially (if you can tolerate a menstrual cup/disc and can keep them clean then these would be my first choice).
4. In a country and on a continent where period poverty keeps girls out of school and impacts their education, this kind of release of research findings to the general public causes unnecessary fear without providing suitable alternatives. I dont doubt the findings but it needs to considered in the context of everything else we consume.