Medical Science
Volume 24, Issue 106, November - December, 2020
Awareness of use dermatological agents/cosmetics in preconception and early pregnancy that can cause fetal abnormalities in Hail Region, Saudi Arabia
Monerah Thaar Alshammari1, Sara Abdullah Aledaili2, Rahaf Turki Aldhaban3, Nuzhat Parveen4
1Medical student, Medical College, University of Hail, KSA, Email: monerah2772@hotmail.com
2Medical Student, Medical College, University of Hail, KSA, Email: saraaledaili@gmail.com
3Medical Student, Medical College, University of Hail, KSA Email: rahaf.dhabaan@gmail.com
4Assistant Prof. Obstetrics & Gynecology, College of medicine, University of Hail, KSA, Email: drnparveen@yahoo.com
ABSTRACT
Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate awareness of use dermatological agents/cosmetics during preconception period
and pregnancy that can affect the fetus. Material/methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Hail region of
Saudi Arabia by Hail University. Study was completed during 3 months duration and 401 women of reproductive age included. A
questionnaire containing information regarding their knowledge about harmful dermatological agents/cosmetics, period of
maximum affect and resulting fetal problems were assessed. Chi-square t-test was used to determine the significance of results
taking p-value <0.05 as significant. Results: In these study n=401 women of reproductive age participated. The majority of (61.8%) of
the participants were 21-25 years old. Many of them were well educated, 349 (87%) held bachelor degree. Singles formed (66.8%)
and 29.7% were married. A large majority 91.8% expressed their view that some dermatological agents/cosmetics are not safe to use
in preconception or during pregnancy (p<0.05). Most of the women expressed their concerns for acne creams, skin lightening
agents and hair products,52.9% told that they check ingredients before purchasing (p>0.05). While 5.7% of participants’ relatives or
people around already had some fetal abnormalities because of the mother's use of harmful agents during pregnancy. Conclusion:
Majority of participants believe that harmful dermatological agents can affect only during first 3 months of pregnancy and can cause
neurodevelopment delay in the fetus but are not associated with genital, thyroid or mental illness nor they can cause abortions,
stillbirths, preterm labors.
Keywords: Dermatological agents, cosmetics, pregnancy, preconception, fetal abnormalities
Medical Science, 2020, 24(106), 4270-4277
