Environmental Pollutants and Pregnancy.

Some environmental pollutants may be harmful to a developing baby. Avoiding exposure to these pollutants is important for a mother-to-be. Below is the information on specific pollutants.

What Can You Do?
There is a lack of clear information on the safety of many chemicals in our environment. The safest course of action is to avoid exposure when possible, whether by oral ingestion or through the air you breathe. It may not be possible to eliminate all contact with every possible chemical.

If you know you will be around various chemicals, wash your hands well before eating. Not smoking cigarettes also helps.

One reassuring fact is that most of the chemicals tested have produced illness in the mother-to-be before damage to her growing baby occurred. An environment that is healthful for you will be healthful for your developing baby.

Some Pollutants to Avoid During Pregnancy.

Lead
The toxicity of lead has been known for centuries. In the past, most lead exposure came from the atmosphere. Today, exposure may come from many sources, including some gasoline (now regulated), water pipes, solders, storage batteries, construction materials, paints, dyes and wood preservatives.
Lead is easily transported across the placenta to the baby. Toxicity can occur as early as the 12th week of pregnancy, which could result in lead poisoning in the baby.
Avoid exposure to lead. If you might be exposed in your workplace, discuss it with your physician.

Mercury
Mercury has a long history as a potential poison to a pregnant woman. Reports offish contaminated with mercury have been linked to cerebral palsy and microcephaly.

PCBs
Our environment has been significantly contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). PCBs are mixtures of several chemical compounds.
Most fish, birds and humans now have measurable amounts of PCBs in their tissues. Some experts have suggested that pregnant women limit their intake offish (to avoid exposure to mercury and PCBs), particularly if a woman is exposed to PCBs where she works.

Pesticides
Pesticides cover a large number of agents used to control unwanted plants and animals. Human exposure is common because pesticides are used extensively. Those of most concern contain several agents DOT, chlordane, heptachlor, lindane and others.