The Consumer Protection Agency (CPA) has assured women and mothers that registered sanitary towels on the Ghanaian market remain safe for use, following complaints of itching, boils, and other forms of discomfort among some users.
According to the Agency, it had retested all registered sanitary towel products in response to the complaints, with the results confirming that the products were in good condition.
In a statement signed by its Head of Complaints, Benjamin Akoto, the CPA said further investigations pointed to handling practices and improper usage as possible causes of the reported reactions.
The Agency explained that sanitary towels are sensitive products that can easily become contaminated when users fail to observe proper hygiene practices.
It also identified poor hand hygiene, failure to change sanitary towels regularly, and excessive heat caused by inappropriate clothing as key factors that could contribute to discomfort and infections.
According to the CPA, some users handle sanitary towels without properly washing their hands or using hand sanitiser before applying or changing them. This, it said, could transfer bacteria and viruses to the intimate area, potentially resulting in infections.
The Agency further raised concerns about users who fail to replace their sanitary towels at the recommended intervals. It advised consumers to change their towels every two to four hours during the day, in line with the guidance outlined in the product usage manual.
On clothing and heat management, the CPA observed that some women wear two pairs of underwear beneath their regular clothing after applying a sanitary towel. The combination of heat and humidity, it noted, could encourage the development of heat rashes, itching and other complications if left untreated.
The Agency said it had recognised gaps in public awareness about the safe use of sanitary towels and would soon launch a nationwide campaign to educate women on proper handling and usage practices.
The planned campaign is expected to help consumers understand how to use the products safely and reduce the risk of discomfort associated with improper use.
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The CPA further emphasised that consumer protection requires cooperation between regulators and the public, noting that while it remains committed to ensuring product quality and consumer satisfaction, users must also follow the instructions provided by manufacturers.
The Agency’s latest assurance comes amid concerns raised by some consumers about reactions experienced after using sanitary towels, although it did not identify the specific products linked to the complaints.
The CPA reiterated that registered products had been tested and found to be in good condition, while encouraging consumers to adopt proper hygiene practices and follow recommended usage guidelines.
