Pregnant mothers may need to avoid certain products to protect their unborn babies from health problems

The Telegraph reports that pregnant mothers' exposure to certain chemicals in shampoos, hairspray, cosmetics, perfumes and other products is linked to low birth weight and other health problems in their babies.

The chemicals are called Phthalates. "In Europe, certain phthalates have been banned from hairsprays and other products since early 2005.

But they are still found in many cosmetics, including deodorants, perfumes, and nail varnish, as well as hairspray."

It appears that pregnant mothers should avoid using such products as far as possible during their pregnancy.