Canadians are being warned by two federal agencies to avoid inhaling talcum powder or using the products on female genitals.

A draft assessment by Health Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada has found exposure may cause potentially serious respiratory effects and possibly ovarian cancer.

The agencies also suggest keeping baby powder away from a child’s face to avoid inhalation.

The draft assessment looked at the safety of talc in cosmetics; baby, body, face and foot powders; diaper and rash creams; and genital antiperspirants and deodorants.

Ottawa says if its final screening assessment confirms talc is harmful to humans, action will be taken to manage the identified risks.