Can Perfumes or Scented Lotions Affect Unborn Children?
Yes, say experts in a BIG way. A recent research suggest that the increased use of scented creams, lotions and perfumes during pregnancy can pose a threat to the unborn child thereby increasing the risk of developing infertility at their latter stage of life. Scientists from the Medical Research Council thereon have warned mothers to quit wearing perfumes or scented creams that can make their baby sons infertile.
Professor Richard Sharpe and his team of scientists conducted their study on rats. The results of the experiment showed that a number of chemicals used in cosmetics and more precisely in lotions, creams and perfumes can completely damage the reproductive system of male fetuses which could lead to infertility and even worse testicular cancer.
Experts suggest that during 8-12 weeks of the gestation period, an unborn child’s reproductive organs are particularly more vulnerable. When an unborn child is exposed to these chemicals during that period, then it is more likely to affect the kid’s sperm production.
Sharpe claims that it is during this period that androgens such as testosterone remain more active in the fetus. Professor Sharpe further adds that if the male fetus in unable to receive enough androgens, then it will also fail to realize its reproductive potential, that is, the size of the testes and penis.
Sharpe has other important problems to highlight. He says that if the hormones such as the testosterone do not function well, then there are increased chances of male fertility problems such as – testicular cancer, low sperm count and undescended testicles.
The experiment on rats clearly revealed that when the hormones got blocked in rats, it led to fertility problems in rats.
Though it is not confirmed as to how or why the chemicals do so much harm to the unborn kids reproductive cycle, mothers-to-be are warned against using such scented products and cosmetics.
Professor Sharpe is looking forward to making his findings known at the Simpson Symposium 2008 in Edinburgh this week which is going to address issues related to reproduction.
As a precautionary measure, keep the perfumes, cosmetics and lotions away till you finally give birth to a healthy son.