Using Personal Care Products During Pregnancy and Nursing: A Risk for Increased Exposure to Toxic Chemicals
A recent study conducted by researchers at Brown University has shed light on the potential risks associated with using personal care products during pregnancy and nursing. The study, published in Environment International, found that individuals who use products such as nail polish, makeup, and hair dye during pregnancy or lactation have higher levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in their blood plasma and breast milk.
PFAS are synthetic chemicals that have been used in consumer products and industrial settings for decades due to their resistance to oil, water, and heat. However, these chemicals have been linked to a range of adverse health effects, including liver disease, cardiovascular issues, and various cancers. The study suggests that exposure to PFAS during pregnancy could contribute to adverse birth outcomes, such as decreased birth weight and preterm birth.
Lead researcher Amber Hall and her team analyzed data from the Maternal-Infant Research on Environmental Chemicals Study, which enrolled over 2,000 pregnant individuals from various cities in Canada. The researchers found that higher use of nail care products, fragrances, makeup, hair dyes, and hair sprays or gels was associated with elevated levels of PFAS in blood plasma and breast milk.
For example, individuals who used makeup daily during pregnancy had 14% to 17% higher plasma and breast milk PFAS concentrations compared to those who did not use makeup as frequently. Similarly, participants who used colored-permanent dye shortly after giving birth had 16% to 18% higher PFAS levels in their breast milk.
It is important to note that the study focused on only a few types of PFAS, and the actual exposure to these chemicals from personal care products may be underestimated. Joseph Braun, a professor of epidemiology at Brown University, emphasized the need for further research to understand how different types of personal care products contribute to PFAS exposure and to inform regulatory decisions.
Studies like these not only help individuals make informed choices about their product use but also provide evidence for regulatory actions to reduce the overall burden of exposure to toxic chemicals. By raising awareness about the potential risks associated with personal care products during pregnancy and nursing, researchers hope to protect the health of mothers and their babies.
In conclusion, pregnant and nursing individuals should consider reducing their use of personal care products containing PFAS to minimize their exposure to these harmful chemicals. By being mindful of the products they use, individuals can take proactive steps to safeguard their health and the health of their children.
