Why Do Retinoids Cause Birth Defects?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Vitamin A (retinol) is an essential vitamin in the daily functioning of human beings that helps regulate cellular differentiation of epithelial tissue. Studies have shown that an excess of vitamin A can affect embryonic development and result in teratogenesis, or the production of birth defects in a developing embryo.

Why are retinoids bad during pregnancy?

Maternal use of synthetic vitamin A (retinoids) such as isotretinoin (Accutane) during pregnancy can result in multiple effects on the developing embryo and fetus including miscarriage, premature delivery and a variety of birth defects.

What happens if you use retinol while pregnant?

Some studies have shown that taking high doses of vitamin A during pregnancy can be harmful to an unborn child. And oral retinoids, such as isotretinoin (a prescription acne treatment previously sold under the brand name Accutane), are known to cause birth defects .

Does Retinol affect fertility?

Dr. Yaqub suggests you taper off using your beloved face creams in the months before TTC. “Stay away from retinoids and retinols (often found in anti-aging creams and cosmetic products),” she says. “ Retinoids are related to vitamin A and when taken by mouth can cause harm to developing embryos and fetuses .”

What birth defects are linked to retinol?

  • Cleft palate and other birth defects of the face. ...
  • Congenital heart defects. ...
  • Ear problems. ...
  • Eye problems. ...
  • Microcephaly. ...
  • Problems with the thymus gland. ...
  • Problems with the parathyroid glands.

When should I stop using retinol during pregnancy?

Current advice is to allow at least one month following cessation of retinoids before attempting conception.

Can Too Much Vitamin cause birth defects?

During pregnancy, it’s important not to get too much preformed vitamin A , which can cause birth defects and liver toxicity in high doses. (However, it’s safe and beneficial to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables high in carotenoids.)

Can I use Vitamin C while pregnant?

You can easily get the vitamin C you need from fruits and vegetables, and your prenatal vitamins also contain vitamin C. It’s not a good idea to take large doses of vitamin C when you’re pregnant. The maximum daily amount that’s considered safe is 1800 mg for women 18 and younger and 2000 mg for women 19 and over.

What can I use instead of retinol when pregnant?

Dr. Michelle Park of Washington Square Dermatology says azelaic acid makes a fantastic substitute for retinols. “It’s my favorite topical acne treatment to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding,” she says.

Can I use Vitamin C serum while pregnant?

Vitamin C can be stressful for sensitive skins or anyone with rosacea. So for those who fall in that category, make sure you’re utilizing a product containing less than 10 percent Vitamin C. Outside of this note, Vitamin C is perfectly safe to use throughout pregnancy and new mama-hood.

Can retinol cause permanent damage?

You may have heard that extended retinol use can cause the skin to thin and the skin barrier to degrade as a result of increased cell turnover, but Shah says that’s a myth. You don’t need to worry about retinol causing permanent damage , Schlessinger says.

What products to avoid while trying to conceive?

  • Hydroxy acids and benzoyl peroxide. ...
  • Retinoids. ...
  • Essential oils. ...
  • Chemical sunscreens. ...
  • Hair dyes. ...
  • Tanning and self-tanner. ...
  • Botox. ...
  • Manicures and pedicures.

Does retinol affect egg quality?

Vitamin A did not affect ovulation rate or total embryos recovered, but it increased the mean number of high quality (Grades 1 and 2; 4.25 vs 1.86; P = 0.01) and total transferable embryos (Grades 1, 2 and 3; 5.87 vs 3.13; P = 0.04). The mean number of blastocysts was greater for Vitamin A-treated cows (2.25 vs .

Can a guy on Accutane gets girl pregnant?

There has been no known adverse effect on the pregnancy if a man taking isotretinoin fathers a child. However, as isotretinoin is present in semen, it may be a sensible precaution to use a condom to avoid transmission of any of the drug to females.

Has anyone used retinol pregnant?

Despite the low risk suggested by these studies, experts still suggest pregnant women avoid applying vitamin A-based formulations to their skin during early pregnancy. On the other hand, if you have used a cosmetic containing a retinol or a similar vitamin A-like compound during pregnancy, there’s no need to panic .

Is retinyl Retinoate safe during pregnancy?

Retin-A, retinol, and retinyl palmitate: Though it also resides in FDA category C, which technically means risk to the fetus cannot be ruled out, Albert Sassoon, MD, an ob-gyn in Manhattan, says this family of products is to be avoided at all costs .

James Park
Author
James Park
Dr. James Park is a medical doctor and health expert with a focus on disease prevention and wellness. He has written several publications on nutrition and fitness, and has been featured in various health magazines. Dr. Park's evidence-based approach to health will help you make informed decisions about your well-being.