South Africa's consumer protection authority, The National Consumer Commission, has launched an investigation into several major brands of sanitary pads following concerns that some products may contain potentially harmful chemicals. The move comes after a recent university study found traces of so-called endocrine-disrupting chemicals - substances linked to hormonal imbalances, infertility and certain cancers - in some commonly used menstrual products. Millions of women and girls across South Africa rely on disposable sanitary pads every month, and the findings have sparked widespread public debate about product safety, health risks and menstrual dignity. Thuto Ngobeni reports.

<p>South Africa's consumer protection authority, The National Consumer Commission, has launched an investigation into several major brands of sanitary pads following concerns that some products may contain potentially harmful chemicals. The move comes after a recent university study found traces of so-called endocrine-disrupting chemicals - substances linked to hormonal imbalances, infertility and certain cancers - in some commonly used menstrual products. Millions of women and girls across South Africa rely on disposable sanitary pads every month, and the findings have sparked widespread public debate about product safety, health risks and menstrual dignity. Thuto Ngobeni reports.</p>