Exposure to a chemical commonly used in hospital disinfectants and cleaning products may have detrimental effects on newborns, according to experts. Scientists have suggested that women exposed to ethylene oxide, a chemical found in hospital disinfectants, antifreeze, detergents, and even in the liquid used in Covid lateral flow tests, are at a higher risk of giving birth to babies with smaller heads.

Research conducted by Spanish scientists revealed that pregnant women exposed to ethylene oxide were more likely to have newborns with lower birth weights and slightly shrunken heads. The study, which involved over 1,000 newborns, detected traces of ethylene oxide in cord blood, the blood that remains in the placenta and umbilical cord post-birth. Women with higher levels of ethylene oxide had babies that were, on average, 71g lighter and had a head circumference 0.3cm smaller.

Official UK guidance on ethylene oxide suggests that while trace amounts in medical devices, including Covid lateral flow tests, are not expected to harm unborn children, prolonged exposure may pose risks. Lead author Barbara Harding from the Barcelona Institute for Global Health highlighted the potential consequences of reduced head circumference and low birth weight on child development and long-term health.

Reduced head circumference has been associated with delayed neurodevelopment, while low birth weight increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and osteoporosis. Additionally, low birth weight is linked to higher childhood mortality rates, developmental challenges, and overall poorer health in later life, as noted by the NHS.

The study authors, whose findings were published in the journal Epidemiology, noted that the highest levels of ethylene oxide were observed in women who smoked. They also cautioned that exposure to the chemical can occur through indoor pollution from various household products, including cleaning agents and personal care items.