A recent study at Edinburgh University reports that chemicals that are commonly found in cosmetics, household fabrics and plastics can restrict the action of androgens, causing fertility problems and future health risks for pregnant and female rats. Although the study does not categorically link the unspecified chemicals with harm on human babies, the researchers still caution expecting mothers against using cosmetic products that could be absorbed into their skin (like perfume) because it might harm their future child later in life. The chemicals may also increase the risk of testicular cancer in baby boys when they grow up. In any case, the research shows that there needs to be more research into the effects of chemical compounds in cosmetics for pregnant women. [BBC]

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