Comparative study of feminine hygiene product regulations in Korea, the European Union, and the United States.

Recently, Korean consumers have experienced public health issues as a result of problematic feminine hygiene products. Consumers and local civic groups have urged manufacturers and the Korean government to provide clear information based on comprehensive studies and strengthen related policies. In this study, we collected and compiled information on the relevant regulations and organizations in Korea, the European Union, and the United States to compare the management systems and legal status of feminine hygiene products around the world. We confirmed that the definition of feminine hygiene products is similar for Korea, the EU, and the US; however, they are categorized as quasi-drugs in Korea, general products in the EU, and medical devices in US according to various regulations. Although we cannot completely prevent human exposure to chemicals in modern society, it is vital to establish a management system for the safe use and production of feminine hygiene products in a scientifically and legally sound manner. This research can contribute to the regulatory toxicology and risk assessment fields of feminine hygiene product research.