Pregnant women are exposed to dozens of chemicals through everyday products, food, water and air pollution, according to a new scientific study that examined chemical exposure during pregnancy.

The study found that several of these chemicals were linked to health risks including premature birth and low birth weight, raising concerns about the impact of routine environmental exposure on mothers and newborns.

Researchers analyzed urine samples from more than 5,000 women who gave birth between 2000 and 2021. They compared the samples with pregnancy outcomes to assess whether chemical exposure was associated with complications during pregnancy or birth.

The study tested for 113 chemicals commonly found in food, drinking water, air pollution, personal care products, fragrances and household items.

On average, researchers found 45 different chemicals in each woman’s sample. In some cases, as many as 64 chemicals were detected.

Among the chemicals identified were phthalates, which are widely used to make plastics softer and more flexible. Researchers also detected some newer chemicals introduced as alternatives to older compounds.

According to the findings, several chemicals were associated with a higher risk of premature birth and low birth weight. Researchers said the results add to growing concerns about chemical exposure during pregnancy.

Senior researcher Tracey Woodruff said one of the troubling findings was that some newer compounds introduced as replacements for toxic chemicals may also carry health risks.

The study also linked polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, known as PAHs, with lower birth weight in newborns. PAHs are produced when coal, oil, gas or wood are burned and can enter the body through polluted air.

Experts said avoiding these chemicals entirely is difficult because they are now found in many products and environmental sources used in daily life.

Researchers said the findings could help pregnant women, health professionals and policymakers better understand possible risks and support stronger measures to protect maternal and infant health.

Also Read :Overlooked Thymus May Play Key Role In Cancer Protection, Study Finds