'Harmful' product chemicals found in baby urine

Chemicals found in some baby products have been linked to possible reproductive problems.

A small study, conducted by researchers from the University of Washington, has suggested that increased levels of phthalates, used in cosmetics and toys, were found in babies' urine after they had been shampooed, powdered or lotioned.

However, it has been suggested that phthalates can cause reproductive problems in boys and early puberty in girls, reports the Associated Press.

"The bottom line is that these chemicals likely do exist in products that we're commonly using on our children and they potentially could cause health effects," the study's lead author, Dr Sheela Sathyanarayana, told the news agency.

Stacy Malkan of Health Care Without Harm added: "There is an obvious need for laws that force the beauty industry to clean up its act."

A recent study suggested that folic acid could help prevent pre-eclampsia in pregnant women, which is a leading cause of maternal and infant illness and death worldwide.

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