In a recent Nature Microbiology study, four chemicals commonly found in cosmetics and hygiene products were linked to an increased risk for preterm birth.

Preterm birth, or birth prior to 37 weeks of gestation, is the leading cause of neonatal death.

In the study, vaginal swab samples were taken from 232 patients in their second trimester and the vaginal microbiome was assessed. Just like the gut microbiome, the vagina is home to billions of microorganisms that balance each other out to create a healthy reproductive system.

Of the 232 participants, 80 gave birth preterm. In over 95% of these moms, four non-biological chemicals were found to be significantly linked to spontaneous preterm birth: diethanolamine (DEA), ethyl-beta glucoside, tartrate, and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid. All of these are found in cosmetics and hygiene products.

Explanations for why these chemicals may lead to preterm birth continue to be explored, but if you’re pregnant or trying to conceive, start checking the ingredients in your beauty products.

Read more here (via Motherly)