TLDR We need better information on how fathers' exposures affect pregnancy.
The study reviewed 253,103 calls to MotherSafe from 2000 to 2015, finding that 1,072 calls (0.4%) concerned paternal exposures, primarily related to immunomodifiers (19%), hair loss products (11%), and antidepressants. It concluded that paternal exposures were a minor but significant concern, with existing consumer and product information often being deficient or misleading. The study emphasized the crucial role of Teratogen Information Services like MotherSafe in offering evidence-based information to consumers and healthcare providers.
11 citations,
March 2010 in “International Journal of Andrology” Finasteride 1-mg doesn't harm sperm or pregnancy chances.
122 citations,
July 1990 in “Teratology” Finasteride exposure in pregnancy causes genital abnormalities in male rats.
36 citations,
March 1987 in “Pediatrics” Minoxidil use during pregnancy can cause excessive hair growth and multiple birth defects in the baby.
December 2023 in “Advances in economics, management and political sciences” Consumers prefer general hair care products over those specifically for hair loss.
September 2022 in “Polish Hyperbaric Research” Some treatments for hair loss, like finasteride, biotin, and minoxidil, can be effective, but their success varies by individual case.
January 2020 in “Estetologia Medyczna i Kosmetologia” Most ingredients in anti-hair loss products lack scientific proof of effectiveness.
January 2020 in “Journal of dermatology research and therapy” Most over-the-counter hair loss treatments lack strong evidence of effectiveness but cost nearly as much as the proven treatment, minoxidil.
2 citations,
January 2007 in “Journal of Fashion Business” Most people with hair loss haven't used treatment products and are only somewhat satisfied with their options, highlighting a need for better management programs and marketing.
A new method can quickly and accurately detect illegal chemicals in hair loss products.