Reading ingredient labels is now more important than ever for pregnant women. According to a November 5, 2010 press release from the Natural Resources Defense Council, new research shows that everyday products such as antibacterial soap, toothpaste and lotions may contain a chemical that could be harmful during pregnancy.
Chemical Triclosan Found to be Harmful in Pregnancy
University of Florida scientists have discovered an important link between a chemical known as triclosan and its potential effect on pregnancy. Used in many everyday household products, triclosan is a common chemical used to provide resistance to bacterial growth. However researchers have recently discovered a dangerous side-effect to this additive in antibacterial products, proving it to be unsafe for pregnant women.
Chemical in Antibacterial Products Disrupts Estrogen Production
What scientists know about triclosan is that it has the ability to interfere with an enzyme that is necessary to metabolize estrogen. This enzyme, known as estrogen sulfotransferase, works to metabolize estrogen and also helps estrogen to pass through to the placenta to reach the growing baby. Estrogen is vital for a developing baby in the growth of brain cells and the development of genes.
Scientists have growing concerns that the triclosan could disrupt the production of estrogen if the mother is exposed to large amounts. However, there is not enough information for researchers to know what amount of triclosan is harmful during pregnancy versus amounts that may be safe.
Antibacterial Products May Reduce Blood Flow to Baby
In addition to interfering with levels of estrogen reaching the baby, too much of the chemical triclosan can also harm the growing baby in other ways, according to study findings. Since triclosan interrupts estrogen, reduced estrogen can ultimately constrict the uterine artery, reducing vital blood flow to the baby. Growing babies cannot develop and thrive without adequate flow of crucial nutrients and oxygen through the mother's blood.
Human Research Needed on Antibacterial Products and Pregnancy
So far, the only research that has been done on antibacterial products and pregnancy, including this current study, have been done on animals. Thus there is an imminent need for more human research in the area of antibacterial product safety since there are so many of these products in current use today.
Using Antibacterial Products and Pregnancy
Without more research, there is not enough specific guidelines to give to pregnant women about the use of antibacterial products and other household products containing triclosan. However, researchers do report caution with antibacterial products and pregnancy. According to the authors of the study, "the high potency of Triclosan as an inhibitor of estrogen sulfotransferase activity raises concern about its possible effects on the ability of the placenta to supply estrogen to the fetus, and in turn on fetal growth and development."
Until more is known about the effect of antibacterial products and triclosan during pregnancy, it makes good sense to reduce or limit the use of any household cleaning or personal products containing triclosan if you are pregnant.
Brenda Lane - Brenda Lane is a published author, Lamaze certified childbirth educator, DONA certified birth doula and approved birth doula trainer.
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