VOCs in Pads: Menstrual Pads Healthy Alternatives for Women

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Two separate recent Nigerian studies investigated and found Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in disposable menstrual pads. But what are VOCs?

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are carbon-based chemicals that evaporate easily at room temperature — meaning they turn into gas or vapor readily, releasing molecules into the air. VOCs often have noticeable smells — think fresh paint, new carpet, nail polish remover, gasoline. VOCs range from harmless (plant scents) to harmful (industrial solvents), depending on the type and exposure level.

What the Research Says

In two separate studies conducted by the Nigerian Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), high amounts of VOCs were reported to be found in a number of sanitary pads across Nigeria. 

In the first research, “Risk Assessment of Aromatic Volatile Organic Compounds in Disposable Sanitary Pads Sold in FCT and Selected States in Nigeria,” 65 pad samples were analysed using static headspace gas chromatography. The report stated that 20 aromatic VOCs were found in 65 menstrual pads.

In a related study by the same group published in the Nigerian Research Journal of Chemical Sciences (December 2024), 17 distinct VOCs were detected in 65 tested pad brands.

The papers performed exposure/risk calculations and interpreted some levels as concerning, but actual health effects in people using these specific Nigerian products have not been demonstrated by these studies. Hence, the study only detected these VOCs in sanitary pads but didn’t prove them to cause harm at the amount present. 

Possible Risk Factors of VOCs in Sanitary Pads 

Here are some possible health effects linked to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in sanitary pads.

1. Reproductive harm: Compounds like 1,2-dibromo-3-chloropropane and 1,2-dichloropropane are linked to reproductive toxicity, including possible effects on fertility.

Menstrual disruption: Changes in cycle length and flow.

2. Uterine disease: The study links exposure to uterine problems.

3. Liver damage: Linked to compounds such as bromochloromethane and 1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane.

4. Kidney damage: Linked to 1,2-dibromoethane and bromochloromethane.

5. Cancer risk: Some detected compounds, such as dichloromethane and trichloroethane, are classified as possible or probable carcinogens.

What Sanitary Pads Alternatives Can Someone Use?

There are several other options women can go for and don't need an expensive product to reduce dependence on disposable menstrual pads.

A. Reusable cloth menstrual pads

For someone on a limited budget, this is probably the most practical alternative.

They can be made from clean, absorbent cotton fabric, folded into several layers and secured appropriately. This is considered healthy by multiple studies. A 2020 study exploring menstrual products in low- and middle-income countries concluded that reusable menstrual pads are an effective, safe, cheaper, and environmentally friendly option for women.

Commercial reusable pads are also available, but homemade ones can be considerably cheaper.

The important part is hygiene:

  • Use clean material.
  • Change when saturated.
  • Wash thoroughly with soap and clean water.
  • Dry completely before reuse.
  • Don't share them.
  • Store completely dry in a clean place.

A reusable pad isn't automatically safer simply because it is reusable; cleanliness and proper drying matter greatly.

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