According to a study conducted by a Delhi-based environmental NGO, Toxics Link, sanitary napkins sold in India contain high amounts of chemicals associated with heart disorders, diabetes, and cancer. In the study, they analyzed ten popular sanitary napkins—six inorganic and four organic sanitary pads—available on the market.

The findings of the study, published in a report titled "Menstrual Waste 2022," revealed the presence of phthalates and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the samples of sanitary napkins. In the study, they found 19,460 g/kg of DIDP, a type of phthalate, in a self-claimed organic pad. Also, the concentrations of a combination of phthalates were found to be 0.0321 and 0.0224 grams in an organic and an inorganic sample, respectively, which is greater than 0.1% by the weight of the product as mandated under the EU regulations.

Additionally, when the napkins were checked for the presence of a total of 25 VOCs, compounds such as acetone, chloroform, benzene, toluene, and others were detected in all the samples, inorganic and organic. The presence of high levels of VOCs in all organic samples, according to the study, shattered the perception that organic pads are safer.

Based on the findings of the study, the NGO provided five recommendations. The first recommendation suggested that a thorough investigation into the presence and potential impact of VOCs and phthalates in menstrual products on women should be conducted. The second recommendation stated that the government and health agencies should frame a standard for chemicals in sanitary products. Thirdly, they stated that the manufacturers should be mandated to disclose the list of product ingredients.

The fourth recommendation suggested responsible advertising to ensure manufacturers provide relevant information and adequate warnings about the product. Lastly, the fifth recommendation suggested framing regulations and schemes to promote substitution or reduction in the use of these chemicals in sanitary napkins. 

(Source: https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/health/high-amounts-of-harmful-chemicals-found-in-sanitary-napkins-sold-in-india-study-453861 )