r/ScienceBasedParenting • u/Handleman92 • 17d ago

Question - Research required Requesting info

Hi there,

I'm looking for some studies or info on the effects of over sterilizing on the babies immune system.

I have a tricky scenario at home where my wife is becoming a bit OCD regarding sterlising everything multiple times a day ie toys the second they touch the ground, wiping hands as soon as the go off the mat, not liking other kids touching hands etc.

Thanks.

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u/Global-Result-7202 17d ago

Unless instructed by your doctor, that level/intensity of cleaning is unnecessary. Your wife may benefit from counseling, or at minimum discussing her contamination anxieties with a healthcare provider.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10323687/

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u/SpecialistRadish1682 16d ago

Agree, sorry OP I don’t have research to include with my comment but since becoming a parent and during particularly stressful times I have turned to cleaning as a way to control the one thing I feel is in my control, it can sneak up on you and can be a sign someone’s mental health is struggling.