Cosmetics containing endocrine disruptors and pregnancy: health professionals' perception of risk

Abstract

Objective: to understand the perception of Primary Health Care health professionals regarding the risks associated with the use of cosmetics containing endocrine disruptors during pregnancy. Methods: this was a qualitative study. The participants were 17 health professionals who visited pregnant women in Primary Health Care. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews. The interviews were analyzed using Content Analysis and theoretical references from researchers in the field. Results: the majority of participants had little knowledge of the concept of endocrine disruptors, reported little confidence in recommending or not recommending the use of cosmetics and personal hygiene products, and also showed little knowledge of the risks they may pose to health. Conclusion: Health professionals have shown that their knowledge of the risks of endocrine disruptors present in cosmetics is fragile and, consequently, they find it difficult to guide pregnant women to reduce harmful exposure. Contributions to practice: raising awareness among professionals of the need for constant updating to provide safe advice to pregnant women.

Keywords

• pregnancy; cosmetics; endocrine disruptors; health personnel.