Mums-to-be who are exposed to insect repellent in the earliest phase of pregnancy are likely to give birth to boys with hypospadias in penises, say researchers.
Mums-to-be who are exposed to insect repellent in the earliest phase of pregnancy are likely to give birth to boys with hypospadias in penises, say researchers.
This is where the opening of the penis is in the wrong place - usually back from the tip and on the underside - and it often requires corrective surgery.
Hypospadias - Detection
Hypospadias is a congenital defect in which the opening of the urethra is located on the under surface of penis, instead of at the end. Symptoms of hypospadias depend on the severity of the condition.
Hypospadias is a congenital defect in which the opening of the urethra is located on the under surface of penis, instead of at the end. Symptoms of hypospadias depend on the severity of the condition.
"This particular defect of the male urethra is quite common ... and has been linked to environmental sources as well as genetic problems," the Daily Telegraph quoted Winder as saying.
"... Here is more evidence that pregnant mothers, or mothers planning pregnancy, should limit their exposure to chemicals such as insect repellents," he added.
Birth Defects - Structural Defects - Neural Tube Defects - Hypospadias
A structural birth defect means that a specific body part is missing or mal-formed during the embryonic development.
A structural birth defect means that a specific body part is missing or mal-formed during the embryonic development.
They found that use of insect repellents during the first three months of pregnancy was associated with an 81 per cent increased risk of hypospadias.
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Male Reproductive System
Interactive section of Medindia gives explanation about Male Reproductive System function
Interactive section of Medindia gives explanation about Male Reproductive System function
However, authors have cautioned more research was needed before firm conclusions could be drawn.
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Common Insect Repellent is Bad for Your Nerves: Study
One of the world's most common insect repellents acts on the central nervous system in the same way as some insecticides and nerve gases, according to a study released on Wednesday.
One of the world's most common insect repellents acts on the central nervous system in the same way as some insecticides and nerve gases, according to a study released on Wednesday.
SRM
