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Claim: A Facebook user claims UNICEF’s finding reveals that 90% of sanitary pads sold in the market are contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus bacteria.
Verdict: Misleading. UNICEF’s 2026 report on technical specifications for disposable sanitary pads noted that pads must be free from Staphylococcus aureus, not that available pads have a 90% contamination rate.
Full Text
Recent social media conversations have focused on the safety of sanitary pads worn by women, with some posts raising concerns about potential health risks.
Nana Mensah on Facebook (archived here) claims that 90% of sanitary pads sold on the market are contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Nana linked the claim to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
In a comment accompanying the post, Mensah describes Staphylococcus aureus as a bacterium that can live harmlessly on the skin or in the nose of healthy people but may cause infection when it enters the body through a cut, wound, or mucous membrane.
As of Oct. 12, 2026, the post has drawn 121 likes, 172 comments, and 55 reshares.
While some users agreed with the claim, others questioned it.
Caroline Mensah, in support of the claim, wrote, “I think I agree with the post, even though not with the percentage I agree because in this era, a lot of things made for us ain’t quality anymore, even the pure water we drink.”
Papa Ackah questioned, “90% of sanitary pads sold on the market are contaminated with bacteria. “UNICEF Findings” is verified by official UNICEF data. UNICEF, is this true?”
DUBAWA decided to verify the claim because of its significance and public implication.
Verification
At first glance, the post did not include a link to the alleged UNICEF report, a publication date, or a research location.
We conducted a keyword search to see whether UNICEF published any study or report on the claim or if credible media organisations reported it, but we found nothing.
Our search led us to UNICEF’s 2026 report on technical specifications for disposable sanitary pads. The requirements state that pads must be free from Staphylococcus aureus; they do not state a 90% contamination rate.
Another relevant publication is UNICEF’S 2019 Guide to Menstrual Hygiene Materials. The document discusses the selection, procurement, quality control, and potential health implications of different menstrual materials, including disposable and reusable sanitary pads.
It cites studies that examined the health effects of disposable pads and notes that no significant adverse health effects have been reported. Also, evidence on the link between disposable pad use and bacterial vaginosis and reproductive tract infections remains inconclusive, especially regarding prolonged wear time.
Meanwhile, the guide does not specify the 90% statistic presented in the claim.
We also found no reputable media organisations that published a report concerning the claim.
Additionally, we emailed UNICEF to clarify whether any publications or endorsed reports stated that 90% of sanitary pads sold on the market are contaminated and to request links to such reports, if they exist.
As of the time of filing this report, we have not received a response.
What is Staphylococcus Aureus About?
Staphylococcus aureus is a bacterium commonly found on human skin and in the nose of healthy individuals. Although it often exists harmlessly, it can cause infections when it enters the body through cuts, wounds or damaged skin. These infections range from minor skin conditions to serious illnesses, including bloodstream infections and pneumonia. Certain strains produce toxins associated with toxic shock syndrome, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition.
The bacterium can spread through direct contact with contaminated hands, surfaces or objects. Its presence on a product does not automatically mean it will cause illness; the risk depends on several factors, including exposure and individual susceptibility.
Conclusion
The claim is misleading. UNICEF did not state that 90% of sanitary pads sold are contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus.