Triclosan in Your Soap Could Be Causing Diabetes in Pregnancy

Triclosan, the antibacterial chemical still lurking in hand soaps, cleaning sprays, and even some toothpastes, is now linked to gestational diabetes.

What the Research Found

A 2026 study in Ecotoxicol Environ Saf used multiomics analysis to figure out exactly how triclosan messes with blood sugar during pregnancy. The researchers found that triclosan disrupts insulin signaling pathways and triggers inflammatory responses that lead to gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

GDM already affects a growing number of pregnancies every year. It raises the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby. And now there's evidence that a chemical you might be using every day is making it worse.

Triclosan Is an Endocrine Disruptor

Triclosan is classified as an environmental endocrine disruptor. That means it interferes with your hormones. The study identified specific molecular targets and mechanisms through which triclosan throws off the body's ability to regulate blood sugar during pregnancy.

The worst part? Triclosan is everywhere. It's been found in 75% of urine samples tested in population studies. You absorb it through your skin every time you use a product that contains it.

What You Can Do

Check your soap, body wash, and cleaning products for triclosan on the label. Switch to products that skip antibacterial chemicals entirely. Plain soap and water works just as well for hand washing.

If you're pregnant or planning to be, this is worth paying attention to. Browse our non-toxic home essentials for safer cleaning options.

Also see non-toxic kitchen essentials for safer alternatives.

Source: Yang K, Zhai P, Zhang M, Zhou W (2026). Ecotoxicol Environ Saf.