Pregnant women using perfumes or scented creams may increase the risk of unborn boys developing infertility later in life.
A research team in Edinburgh University claimed a crucial window between eight and 12 weeks of pregnancy determined future reproductive problems.
Although they haven't they got conclusive proof, they believe that exposure to chemicals found in cosmetics during this period may affect later sperm production. Some of the chemicals which can block the male hormones are widely used in the production of items such as cosmetics, household fabrics and plastics.
Prof Sharpe of the Medical Research Council's Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, said the chemicals may also increase the risk of baby boys developing other reproductive conditions in later life, including testicular cancer.
He added that women planning on becoming pregnant should avoid putting any cosmetic products on their skin which could then be absorbed into their bodies.
He said: "If you are planning to become pregnant you should change your lifestyle. Those lifestyle things don't necessarily mean that you are going to cause terrible harm to your baby, but by avoiding them you are going to have a positive effect. We would recommend you avoid exposure to chemicals that are present in cosmetics, anything that you put on your body that might then get through your body into your developing baby. It is not because we have evidence that these chemicals categorically cause harm to babies, it is only based on experimental studies on animals that suggest it is a possibility."
However, Prof Sharpe said women were exposed to many of the chemicals he was concerned about through many other routes, as they are widespread in the air and in the fabrics of their homes.
A spokeswoman for the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform said all cosmetics undergo testing and current legislation ensures public safety. She added: "All cosmetic products including perfume undergo a rigorous safety assessment by manufacturers.
September 2008
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