Researchers may have uncovered one reason why some males have problems with infertility: For the first time, a study has discovered the more a pregnant woman is exposed to high, but common, levels of a widely used chemical, known as phthalate, found in:
... the greater the risk her son will have smaller genitals and incomplete testicular descent, leading to impaired reproductive development. In fact, such alterations were present based on phthalate levels found in one-quarter of U.S. women.
Phthalate Findings
Researchers tested levels of four kinds of phthalates in the urine of pregnant women; they examined 134 of the baby boys, ages 2-30 months, born to those women.
While none of the boys showed clear malformation or disease, in the 25 percent of mothers with the greatest exposure to phthalate:
The odds were 10 times higher that their sons would have a shorter-than-expected distance between the anus and the base of the penis. (This measurement is an indictor of impacts on their reproductive system.)
In defense of the findings, the Cosmetic Toiletry and Fragrance Association claims the use of phthalates in cosmetics and personal care products is backed by an extensive body of scientific research and data that verifies safety.
However, phthalate exposure has never been studied in infant boys until now.
Environmental Health Perspectives May 27, 2005 (Free Full-Text Article)
USA Today May 26, 2005
The full effects these chemicals have on your body may not be known for many years but the effects noted here are more than enough to justify a strong commitment to avoid being exposed to them.
Two years ago, I warned you exposure to phthalates -- chemicals used to lengthen the life of fragrances and soften plastic in toys and medical tubes -- was likely dangerous, although no extensive studies had been mounted at the time. However, this new study has finally uncovered the first evidence of the fallout from such exposure in mothers and babies, and the news isn't good.
As stated above, the more a mother is exposed to phthalates, the greater the risk she'll have a baby boy with smaller genitals and incomplete testicular descent leading to impaired reproductive development. If you're seeing these abnormalities in your little boy, sad to say, don't be surprised: Such alterations were present based on phthalate levels discovered in 25 percent of this nation's women.
While some are cautious about these findings, others are far more concerned for good reason: Phthalate exposure may be contributing to a higher overall incidence of male infertility.
One cosmetic that is common this time of year, but that can have toxic effects, is sunscreen. That’s because the vast majority of today's sunscreens, like many other cosmetics, are nothing more than poisonous concoctions loaded with harmful chemicals.
Fortunately, I have finally found two truly wonderful sunblocks that are virtually free of all toxic chemicals.
If you and your loved ones ever use sunblock, I urge you to find out about these two safe forms, which you can apply with the peace of mind of knowing you are getting non-toxic protection in an all-natural blend.
Related Articles:
Phthalate Plasticizers Dangerous, Especially to Children Commonly Used Plastics Chemicals May Harm Children CDC Report States Exposure To Chemicals Higher Than Expected
Phthalate Plasticizers Dangerous, Especially to Children
Commonly Used Plastics Chemicals May Harm Children
CDC Report States Exposure To Chemicals Higher Than Expected