A growing body of research is raising concerns about the safety of everyday plastic products.

A new study published in The Lancet Planetary Health suggests that exposure to certain plastic chemicals during pregnancy may be linked to behavioral changes in young children.

Shift away from BPA

For years, bisphenol A (BPA) was widely used in baby bottles and food containers. However, after BPA was linked to hormonal and developmental problems, many governments restricted its use.

Manufacturers responded by replacing BPA with alternatives such as bisphenol S (BPS) and methyl paraben. As a result, many products now carry “BPA-free” labels.

Where these chemicals are found

BPS and methyl paraben are commonly used in plastics, food packaging, cosmetics, and personal-care products. Their widespread use has increased concerns about long-term exposure, particularly during pregnancy.

The study analyzed urine samples from more than 1,000 pregnant women in France and Spain. Researchers tracked exposure to BPS and methyl paraben over a decade. The goal was to understand how these chemicals might affect children’s early development.

Researchers found that higher levels of BPS and methyl paraben during pregnancy were associated with small changes in children’s emotional and behavioral development. These changes were observed when the children were between 18 and 24 months old.

While the effects were described as subtle, scientists say they are significant enough to warrant attention. The first years of life play a crucial role in emotional and behavioral development. Even small changes during this period can have long-term implications.