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Sanitary Napkins with Synthetic Fibers are a Source of Hormone-Disrupting Chemicals

"Synthetic Fiber Sanitary Napkins: Nonnegligible Exposure Source of Organophosphate Esters in Women." — Environmental science & technology, 2026

April 2, 2026by AI Curated

Sanitary Napkins with Synthetic Fibers are a Source of Hormone-Disrupting Chemicals

What they found

Researchers detected organophosphate esters (OPEs) in most synthetic fiber sanitary napkins, with maximum concentrations of 516 μg/g in surface layers and 200 μg/g in absorbent cores. Dermal intake during menstruation was estimated to be 805–2240 ng/kg BW/day, comparable to dietary intake.

What they studied

This study investigated the presence of organophosphite antioxidants (OPAs) and their oxidation products (OPEs) in synthetic fiber sanitary napkins and assessed potential dermal exposure risks. Molecular docking analysis explored their interaction with key steroidogenic enzymes.

Takeaways

The abstract focuses on the study's findings regarding OPEs in sanitary napkins and their potential health implications; it does not provide personal how-to steps.

About this paper

This research involved detecting organophosphate esters (OPEs) in synthetic fiber sanitary napkins, simulating dermal exposure, and conducting molecular docking analysis. The study identifies a critical dermal exposure pathway and highlights potential hormonal disruption.

organophosphate estersopessanitary napkinsdermal exposureendocrine disruptorshormone disruptionmenstrual healthcurated

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