Pregnant and breastfeeding women who use personal care products like nail polish, makeup, fragrances, hair dyes and sprays have significantly higher levels of toxic chemicals known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), in their blood plasma and breast milk. Exposure to PFAS during pregnancy may contribute to adverse birth outcomes such as preterm birth, lower birth weight, certain neurodevelopmental disorders and lower vaccine response in children.
The study, published in Environment International, included 2,001 pregnant women who reported on their use of personal care products during and after pregnancy. Researchers also measured PFAS levels in the blood of these women at six to 13 weeks of gestation and in breast milk after delivery. Higher use of such products was associated with higher PFAS levels in blood plasma and breast milk.
Participants who wore makeup daily in the first and third trimesters had 14 per cent more PFAS in their blood and 17 per cent more in their breast milk. Those who used permanent hair dye one or two days after delivery had 16-18 per cent higher levels of PFAS in their breast milk.
Women who are concerned about chemical exposure may want to limit or avoid using such products during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, researchers suggested.
PFAS have also been associated with many adverse health effects, including liver disease, cardiometabolic and cardiovascular issues and various cancers.
