5 Reasons Why You Should Avoid Triclosan During Pregnancy

What harm can triclosan during pregnancy bring to your growing baby? Keep reading to find out more, Mamas!

If you are one of those who are paying attention to the ingredients of the products that you use, then you came to the right place. But, if not, this is a great time to start, especially if you are expecting. After all, when it comes to the health and development of the baby inside your body, there is really no space to take chances, right?

At this point, we can confidently say that you should look at the back of all your personal care items and check whether these have triclosan. Stop using them immediately. And never ever buy products with triclosan again. But before you do that, let’s first discuss its negative health impacts and why you should avoid triclosan during pregnancy at all costs.

What is Triclosan Anyway?

According to the FDA, triclosan is an ingredient added to many consumer products to reduce or prevent bacterial contamination. This is why it is commonly found in products like soap, deodorants, cosmetics, mouthwashes, and toothpaste. However, it has also found its way to clothing, kitchenware, furniture, and even toys.

In fact, in 2016, FDA also banned the marketing of over-the-counter consumer antiseptic wash products containing triclosan to consumers. A year after, FDA deemed triclosan as not generally recognized as safe and effective for antiseptic products intended for use in health care settings.

But what harm can it exactly cause? Let’s find out.

1. Triclosan may disrupt your baby’s growth

Studies have shown that triclosan is an endocrine disruptor that impacts the body’s normal hormones, including those in charge of your baby’s growth. It has also been investigated that exposure to triclosan can be linked to disturbing the normal weight and height development of a growing fetus.

2. Triclosan may mess up your due date… or worse

Research shows that a high level of triclosan in the urine increases your chance of giving birth to your baby earlier than expected. There is also the risk of low birth weight and other developmental issues with this. There are also ongoing investigations into whether endocrine disruptors such as triclosan can be linked to miscarriage.

On top of all of this, there is evidence that triclosan has a 50% chance to be present in the umbilical cord, which means that they can also be exposed to the same dangers mamas are facing.

3. Triclosan may have harmful effects on the immune system

Our body is filled with good bacteria that support our overall health. Some researchers have found that going overboard with cleaning products like the ones with triclosan can wipe out the good bacteria along with bad bacteria. This results in unintended long-term consequences on your immune system and general health.

Aside from this, the use of antibacterial chemicals unnecessarily may contribute to antimicrobial and antibiotic resistance and the ability of microbes such as viruses and bacteria to resist the effects of antimicrobials.

4. Triclosan may increase the chances of irritations and allergies

Children exposed to harsh antibacterial compounds like triclosan at an early age have been found to have a significantly increased chance of developing contact dermatitis and skin irritation. Not only that, but there are also concerns over developing severe allergies, asthma, and eczema.

5. Triclosan may contribute to the development of cancer

Multiple ongoing studies involve the link between triclosan and a carcinogenic known as dioxin.

One studies how this chemical caused liver cancer in mice and can possibly cause the same in humans. Another study investigates the potential development of skin cancer in animals after long-term exposure to triclosan.

However, it is worth noting that none of these studies have been completed yet as of writing. But are you really going to risk it?

Meet the Safe Alternative: Mama’s Choice Non-Fluoride Toothpaste

The best way to get started on your triclosan-free life is in your choice of toothpaste. Mama’s Choice Non-Fluoride Toothpaste is free from all types of potentially harmful ingredients like triclosan and other no-no chemicals (Also Read: 7 Harmful Chemicals To Avoid During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding) such as alcohol and SLS.

Mama’s Choice Non-Fluoride Toothpaste is specially formulated for pregnant women to worry about one less thing while expecting. To ensure it’s safe, we’ve used primarily natural ingredients known to effectively clean the teeth, protect the gums, and freshen the breath.

What’s in our toothpaste?

Miswak. Known for its antibacterial properties, it prevents the growth of harmful oral bacteria and rebuilds weakened tooth enamel.
Mint. This natural ingredient provides a refreshing and clean breath all day long.
Chlorophyll. Renowned for its deodorizing properties, it reduces bad breath and prevents plaque formation.
Allantoin. The natural anti-inflammatory properties of allantoin relieve irritation and help protect teeth against acid erosion.

Having a healthy mouth and fresh breath without exposing yourself and your baby to triclosan during pregnancy should be easy! And now, that is possible with Mama’s Choice Non-Fluoride Toothpaste.

If you’re convinced to make the switch, hop on over to our official Amazon store and get yours today!