In recent weeks, the Chinese social media landscape has erupted in fury over discrepancies in the lengths of popular sanitary pads. Videos posted by users on platforms like Xiaohongshu have depicted women measuring the actual lengths of pads from various brands, revealing that a significant number fall short of the advertised dimensions. This revelation has ignited a larger conversation about the quality and safety of feminine hygiene products, which have previously faced scrutiny in China.
The uproar began on November 3, when a user demonstrated the noticeable length discrepancies between the actual pads and the measurements claimed on their packaging. “Will cutting a few centimetres help you strike it rich?” the user provocatively asked, encapsulating the frustration many feel regarding product integrity. Users quickly echoed the sentiment across social networks, expressing anger and disappointment with manufacturers.
An investigation conducted by The Paper found that approximately 90% of the sanitary pads examined were at least 10mm shorter than the lengths stated on their packaging. Notably, the absorbent layers within these pads were also measured to be shorter, raising concerns about their effectiveness. While national standards do exist for the lengths of sanitary pads, they reportedly do not specify absorbent layer measurements, highlighting regulatory gaps that might need addressing.
In light of the backlash, the well-known Chinese brand ABC received additional criticism for its dismissive customer service response to complaints which advised consumers to "choose not to buy" if they were unhappy with the pads' lengths. Following a wave of consumer anger, ABC publicly apologized, committing to improve product standards and eliminate discrepancies. Other companies like Shecare and Beishute have also stepped forward to apologize to consumers.
Chinese state media has joined the discussion, condemning manufacturers for prioritizing profit over quality. An article by Xinhua emphasized that the health and comfort of women, who consistently rely on these products, must be a top priority for manufacturers in this segment.
The current controversy surrounding sanitary pads is part of a broader narrative regarding women's health products in China. Despite being the leading feminine hygiene product with a market valuation of $13 billion, the industry has faced past challenges, including a major fake sanitary towel scandal in 2016 and product safety woes involving foreign objects in pads.
This recent wave of anger reflects a growing demand from women for better quality and accountability from manufacturers. As one trending hashtag on Weibo suggested, "Sanitary pads yield a centimetre; women yield for a lifetime," capturing the frustration and expectations for improved safety and quality in products designed specifically for them.
