Pregnancy is a magical phase when a woman experiences a new life growing and thriving within her body. But it also entails the responsibility of keeping the little one safe there. If you are a would-be mom, you will surely want to follow all the rules and listen to every piece of advice to ensure the safety and well-being of the baby.
While you will hear a lot about eating a balanced diet, taking enough rest, and avoiding stress, daily toxins are a less-discussed concern. But they can cause immense harm to the fetus. According to a study, certain chemicals can get through maternal skin and interfere with hormone activity, potentially leading to altered brain development in the baby.
Sounds scary, right?
But awareness is the key to avoiding daily toxins and protecting your bundle of joy from them. Fortunately, you need not be an expert to identify the potential threats and understand the risks.
We have a comprehensive checklist of the harmless-looking daily toxins that may harm your baby. Skip these culprits to cruise through a healthy pregnancy!
Understanding the Risks of Toxin Exposure During Pregnancy
Before narrowing down the toxins to skip, you must understand how they can be a threat to you and your baby. Fortunately, most chemicals you encounter every day do not harm the fetus unless you are exposed to large amounts. Significant exposure may cause:
- Preterm labor
- Low birth weight
- Miscarriage or stillbirth
- Congenital defects
- Future health problems
- Developmental delays such as autism and ADHD
Autism and ADHD are major concerns for pregnant women because they are closely linked with the use of Tylenol during pregnancy. You may even know someone fighting a Tylenol lawsuit against the manufacturer because of an unfavorable pregnancy outcome. Likewise, victims whose children developed autism or ADHD due to in-utero exposure can bring up a Tylenol class action lawsuit.
You can read more about these lawsuits at the official website of TorHoerman Law. Besides offering information about Tylenol ADHD litigation, the firm provides free consultation to people considering a claim.
Now that you understand the potential risks of toxins like Tylenol to a developing fetus, you are in a better place to watch out for the culprits and avoid them altogether.
Everyday Toxins That May Harm Your Baby during Pregnancy
OTC Painkillers
As a rule, you should avoid all over-the-counter medications during pregnancy unless your doctor allows them. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac can be hazardous, specifically during the third trimester of pregnancy. Tylenol is another OTC painkiller you should avoid.
Cleaning Products
You want to keep your home shining clean but beware of the chemical cleaning products as they may be high in toxins. Some chemicals are known to cause wheezing in early childhood. You can swap them with natural cleaners like vinegar, salt, and lemon juice.
Toxic Paint Fumes
If you plan to paint the nursery before your little one arrives, choose a non-toxic paint to stay safe. Your baby may be at risk if you use a solvent-based product. Stripping old paintwork that contains traces of lead is also risky, even if you use a non-toxic product. You can reduce exposure to fumes by avoiding DIY and ensuring proper ventilation for the room.
Mercury in Fish
While seafood is a source of high-value nutrients, including omega-3, some varieties may contain mercury. It can harm the developing brain of unborn babies and lead to developmental delays. Choose your fish wisely to prevent the intake of mercury. Also, stick with an average amount of seafood to stay on the safe side.
Pesticides and herbicides
Did you know that the common pesticides and herbicides you use to eliminate pests and garden bugs can be detrimental to your baby? Avoid them as much as possible and look for natural alternatives. Having a bug-free home and garden is not worthwhile if you end up with pregnancy complications or a sick baby.
Personal Care Products
Surprisingly, your personal care products may also have chemicals and toxins. The worst part is that you use them every day, which increases the exposure risk. Take a good look at the labels of your cosmetics, nail paints, shampoos, and conditioners, and skip anything with too many chemical ingredients.
A Word of Caution
Undoubtedly, you may be dealing with more daily toxins than you imagine, and many of them can be dangerous during pregnancy. The best way to protect your baby is by avoiding chemicals in the first place and reducing exposure where you cannot fully avoid them. From ditching OTC painkillers to looking for natural alternatives to harmful chemicals and sourcing organic food, there are many ways to stay toxin-free during pregnancy. Stay vigilant and choose wisely!
