Expectant mothers have much to look out for.
“I got all natural lotions, started thinking about my makeup and like my foundation,” said Jaclyn Bacon, an expectant mother.
But now there’s a new warning about dangerous toxins hiding in what seem like safe products. The report, just released by a team of ASU researchers, found certain anti-bacterial items may be exposing pregnant women and their fetuses to harmful chemicals.
“Triclosan and triclocarban are the two common ones that in particular we were looking at that were commonly found in soaps and a lot of other products that you’ll see labeled anti bacterial,” said Isaac Roll, an ASU researcher.
He said the study looked at urine samples from pregnant women and their baby’s umbilical cord blood.
“Some of these anti microbials are actually being transmitted from the mothers’ body into the unborn child,” Roll said.
While the FDA is still reviewing possible regulations, experts say there’s growing evidence these compounds can cause developmental and reproductive problems.
“We used hand sanitizer with her… so I would think it is a good thing,” said Elizabeth Wood.
But soap isn’t the only thing to look out for–the compounds are found in around 2,000 everyday items, so your best bet is to check the label.
“There are toothpastes. There are cosmetics and all different kinds of products that have these,” Roll said.
Bacon said she would listen to the warning.
“For me I’d just rather be more cautious… and it’s better for my body too,” she said.