My pregnant patients – in my clinic and through my online program – are often concerned about chemical exposure during pregnancy. A new study has highlighted the importance of decreasing exposure to phthalates, especially in leave-on personal-care products like skin toners, lotions and make-up. The study found higher concentrations of mono-ethyl phthalates (MEPs) in these products than in their wash-off cousins. More than 80% of the pregnant women tested in the study had detectable urine levels of these known endocrine disrupters, to which growing fetuses are especially vulnerable.
When making decisions about personal care products, I refer many of my patients and clients to the Environmental Working Group and their fantastic Skin-Deep Cosmetics Database of over 60,000 personal care products. This is my go-to resource for safety information for moms and kids – with everything from shampoos and toothpastes to makeup and sunscreens. Their research and rating system have helped many of my patients make informed decisions about their personal care products and which chemicals they choose to put on their bodies.
I hope you have found this helpful – let me know if you have any questions!
If you’re hungry for more evidence-based information in your pregnancy, sign up for my free webinar: 7 Pregnancy Myths Debunked – and get the information you need to have a healthy pregnancy and a thriving baby.
And if you are a care-provider looking for evidence-based resources for your pregnant patients, please get in touch with us at : support@myhealthypregnancyplan.com.
In health,
Dr Jocelyn Land-Murphy, ND
Terra Life
Disclaimer: The information and content provided is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not professional medical advice, nor is it intended to be a substitute therefore. Please consult the Disclaimer and Terms of Use for full details.
References:
Environmental Working Group. (2018). EWG’s Skin Deep Cosmetics Database. Environmental Working Group. Retrieved from https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/#.W3-ToJMzqoh
Hsieh, C. et al. (2018). Personal care products use and phthalate exposure levels among pregnant women. Science of the Total Environment, 648: 135-143.