Reports that antibacterials in pregnancy are 'harmful' unfounded

Conclusion This experimental study in mice demonstrates the ability of TCC, a substance found in some antibacterial soaps, to transfer from mother to baby across the placenta and through breast milk. Moreover, this had signs of developmental effects on new-born mice, reducing brain size. It also increased body weight, which was associated with poorer fat metabolism in the female mice. This research adds to the body of research suggesting that triclocarban, like the antiseptic triclosan, has potentially harmful effects and should not be used in consumer products. However, the study was carried out on mice and they are not biologically identical to people. TCC was also given directly through daily drinking water. The dose given was said to be similar to that found in US water supplies – however, the authors did say it is a common contaminant of wastewater. They didn't say anything about levels in household drinking water supplies. Therefore it is not completely clear from the study how relevant this dose is. Also, the levels in US water supplies may not be relevant to the UK. Even if it is similar to our exposure – through water, soap or otherwise – the effects to human foetus and new-born development might not be as severe, if it has any effect at all. TCC is being phased out of products. If you are pregnant or breast feeding and are concerned about potential exposure, there are a range of soaps and other products out there that do not contain TCC. And as we reporte...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Pregnancy/child Source Type: news