Parents should be warned that they could be putting their baby’s life at risk with the different baby products they expose them to. In a study recently released by the University of Washington, the researchers placed in their findings that a chemical called phthalates was found in the urine of 163 infants that were exposed to shampoo, lotion and powder. Although it is not yet proven that this chemical is doing harm to the infants, the researchers are still concerned on what might be the long term effect of these chemicals to them.

However, in animal tests done, the results show that exposure to phthalates at a very young age can have grave effect on the male reproductive tract. The toxicity of the chemical can cause the lowering of the fetal testosterone. And it is not only the males. There are also records that show toxicity in the reproductive tract can cause onset of early puberty in females.

If you are wondering what exactly phthalates are, these are actually synthetic chemicals that are commonly found in materials found at home such as cosmetics, personal care products, PVC plastics, plastic toys, and other products with fragrance.

Further study needs to be done in order to establish phthalates degree of effect on infants’ health. Even if this is so, it would be a good idea for parents to lessen their baby’s exposure to baby products and other materials containing phthalates.