Pregnancy is a very delicate moment in our vital stage. It is marked by new functions that our body has to perform, new tissues that will be formed and new signals that will be sent so that everything follows its course perfectly.

One of the most important molecules involved in cell signaling are hormones. Hormones are in charge of orchestrating the pregnancy process, that is, of sending signals at each precise moment so that a series of functions are carried out that will mark the development of our baby's life. Therefore, hormones and their correct functioning are vital for our pregnancy to be successfully completed.

Likewise, our world is full of molecules that may not be beneficial for our pregnancy and our baby's life, which we inhale, ingest or absorb through our skin. We are referring to particles present in pollution or in agricultural or garden products, air fresheners, food additives and cosmetic molecules. One of these harmful molecules are endocrine disruptors (EDs). These compounds, as their name suggests, can alter our hormonal system, preventing them from carrying out their function or signaling properly, thus leading to serious consequences [1,2].

Endocrine disruptors

The list of these substances is very extensive. The World Health Organization (WHO) published a report in 2012, stating that there are approximately 800 organic compounds suspected of acting as EDs [1]. In cosmetics, there is a list with 28 substances for evaluation for their possibility of acting as EDs and for several of them there is already a safety report, concluding that they are not safe at the concentrations they are used.

A major problem we encounter is that these molecules enter our organism and accumulate in it, often irreversibly and pass from one generation to another [3,4]. In addition, they act with a cocktail effect, i.e., their effect is greater as a whole; and they carry out their action at extremely small concentrations.

The effect of endocrine disruptors on pregnancy

EDs have been extensively associated with infertility processes [1,2]. An association of these molecules with poor semen quality, decreased testosterone, and even increased sperm DNA fragmentation has been observed [5,6,7]. Hormonal imbalances, alterations in the menstrual cycle and genital malformations have also been observed in women [8,9]. As we can see, already during the search for pregnancy, we should be cautious and avoid exposure to these molecules.

And what happens in pregnancy? As we have already said, pregnancy is orchestrated by hormones, and any molecule that disturbs the endocrine system can alter the gestation process[10].

Several studies have shown that endocrine disruptors are associated with different complications in pregnancy.

Hypertension and preeclampsia during pregnancy are the most frequent, worrisome and feared complication at this time, since, in severe cases, the life of the fetus and the mother is at stake. In moderate cases it can lead to placental abruption, preterm birth or retarded growth of the fetus. It has been shown that certain EDCs are responsible for the appearance of these hypertensive alterations [11].

EDCs have also been associated with the development of gestational diabetes mellitus [12]. Gestational diabetes is one of the most common disorders during gestation, appearing in up to 25% of expectant mothers. This complication has dramatic effects for the fetus, as it can develop macrosomia, hypoglycemia, metabolic disorders, respiratory distress or type 2 diabetes after birth; the mother will also be more prone to have hypertension, preeclampsia or have a cesarean delivery.

EDCs also increase the risk of preterm birth [13,14]. Premature births carry with them a series of short-term complications: cardiovascular, immunological, respiratory, neurological, etc., since their organs are still developing. In the most severe cases, these alterations have a long-term scope and can cause cerebral palsy, learning difficulties, vision, hearing, dental, psychological and chronic health problems.

And what may be even more serious is that certain EDCs increase the risk of miscarriage by up to 3 times [15]. The incidence of miscarriage is between 10-20% of pregnant women, and it is the biggest fear after seeing a positive pregnancy test.

Endocrine disruptors increase the risk of miscarriage by up to 3 times.

As we can see, there are substances in the exposome, including cosmetic products, that can harm our pregnancy. We must therefore be aware, prevent, take precaution and avoid exposure to them, using carefully designed products, respectful and responsible with motherhood, as are the products of our brand Mamanecó.

Bibliography

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