Can paraben exposure during pregnancy change a baby's DNA?

What's actually in it

Parabens (methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben) are preservatives used in lotions, shampoos, conditioners, deodorants, makeup, and sunscreen. They prevent bacterial growth in products that contain water. You absorb them through your skin every time you apply these products. During pregnancy, parabens cross the placenta and reach the developing baby.

What the research says

A 2026 study in Environ Int measured paraben levels in pregnant women during early pregnancy and then analyzed the DNA methylation patterns in their babies' umbilical cord blood. DNA methylation is an epigenetic process: it doesn't change the DNA sequence itself, but it changes which genes get turned on or off.

Babies born to mothers with higher paraben exposure had different methylation patterns compared to those with lower exposure. The changes affected genes involved in growth, metabolism, and immune function.

Epigenetic changes during fetal development can have lifelong consequences. They can affect how a child's body handles weight, responds to infections, and even how their own children develop. The changes are set during a narrow window of vulnerability in the womb and may persist for decades.

The most direct way to reduce paraben exposure during pregnancy is to choose personal care products labeled "paraben-free" and to reduce the total number of products used daily. Fewer products means less cumulative chemical exposure.