Triclosan, an antibacterial and antifungal agent found in many brands of toothpaste, could negatively impact fetal development when ingested by pregnant women, reports the Daily Mail.
The chemical is found to disrupt estrogen circulation in the womb, which can in turn restrict blood flow to the fetus, starving it of oxygen and potentially damaging the brain. It may also influence sex organs, reduce sperm quality and impact the development of hormones, earlier studies have found.
A common chemical, triclosan has been around for over 50 years and is found in an increasing number of products, including soap, deodorant, kitchen utensils and even toys. Previous studies have already raised warnings about health and environmental concerns caused by triclosan and its by-products.
Triclosan is currently under review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The government agency has yet to find enough evidence to suggest that consumers stop using these products, but neither does it recognize antibacterial hand and body washes to be any more effective than plain soap and water.
Concerned consumers should check product labels carefully and avoid those brands that contain triclosan or triclocarbon.