A growing body of evidence suggests that pregnant women who use makeup and personal care products may be at a higher risk of developing hypertension, according to a warning issued by maternal child health experts.
According to them, exposure to certain chemicals found in personal care products could lead to an increased risk of hypertension, a condition that could have serious consequences for both the mother and the baby.
Chemicals commonly found in these products, such as phenols and parabens, have been linked to a 57% increased risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy, particularly between weeks 24 and 28. These findings are based on a recent study published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives.
Speaking exclusively with PUNCH Healthwise, the gynaecologists advised expectant mothers to be cautious when using hair dyes, nail polishes, and skincare creams, as they could contain harmful chemicals like lead, mercury, and parabens.
Gynecologists are urging expectant mothers to exercise caution when using hair dyes, nail polishes, and skincare creams, as these products may contain harmful substances like lead, mercury, and parabens.
The findings were based on health data of more than 1,000 pregnant women in northern Puerto Rico. To estimate the levels of 12 phenols and parabens, the researchers conducted a urine test on each participant.
Reacting to the study, some maternal health experts who spoke with our correspondent, noted that many makeup and personal care products contain a cocktail of chemicals, some of which have been linked to health problems.
Dr. Joseph Akinde, a renowned obstetrician and gynaecologist, explained that parabens, commonly used as preservatives, can mimic estrogen, leading to water and salt retention and subsequently, high blood pressure.
While noting that high blood pressure during pregnancy is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality worldwide, Akinde warned that hypertension could lead to severe complications such as preeclampsia and eclampsia, conditions that significantly threaten the health of both the mother and the baby.
When asked how high blood pressure in a pregnant woman could affect the baby, the reproductive health expert said maternal hypertension could lead to intrauterine growth restriction, where the baby does not grow as expected in the womb.
This condition, he added, could result in premature labour, which increases the risk of complications for the baby, including neonatal death.
To mitigate these risks, experts recommend opting for natural alternatives like coconut oil and Vaseline. Pregnant women are also advised to consult with their healthcare providers regarding the safe use of cosmetics and personal care products during pregnancy.
Corroborating his statement, a consultant gynaecologist at the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Dr Daniel Erinoso, noted that many personal care products, including some cosmetics, contain chemicals known as endocrine disruptors.
“Choosing products free from parabens and other harmful chemicals can help reduce the risk of hypertension and other pregnancy-related complications,” he noted.
He said one group of these chemicals, known as parabens, were commonly used as preservatives in cosmetics to prevent bacterial growth.
The expert also stressed the importance of awareness and education among pregnant women about the potential risks associated with exposure to certain chemicals during pregnancy.
He maintained that by taking precautions and making informed choices, expectant mothers can reduce their risk of hypertension and ensure a healthy pregnancy.
While the beauty industry has yet to fully address these concerns, the research emphasizes the importance of informed choices for expectant mothers.
Key points:
- Makeup and personal care products linked to increased hypertension risk in pregnant women.
- Chemicals like phenols and parabens are culprits.
- Experts advise caution and use of natural alternatives.
- Pregnant women urged to consult with healthcare providers.