Why Is Exposure To Toxins Especially Dangerous During The First Trimester?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Exposure to certain environmental chemicals has been linked to birth defects ; premature deliveries, stillbirths, and infants with low birth weight; and problems with nervous system development. New evidence also suggests that some environmental chemicals in men’s and women’s bodies are linked with reduced fertility.

How do toxins affect pregnancy?

Exposure to certain environmental chemicals has been linked to birth defects ; premature deliveries, stillbirths, and infants with low birth weight; and problems with nervous system development. New evidence also suggests that some environmental chemicals in men’s and women’s bodies are linked with reduced fertility.

Why is radiation exposure to an unborn child during the first trimester of pregnancy more hazardous?

Although radiation doses to a fetus tend to be lower than the dose to the mother, due to protection from the uterus and surrounding tissues, the human embryo and fetus are sensitive to ionizing radiation at doses greater than 0.1 gray (Gy) .

What toxins should be avoided during pregnancy?

  • Pesticides and herbicides. Some pesticides (bug killers) and herbicides (weed killers) are known to affect developing and newborn babies. ...
  • Cleaning products. ...
  • Paint. ...
  • Mosquito repellent. ...
  • Mercury. ...
  • Arsenic-treated timber. ...
  • Nail polish. ...
  • Paint and lead-based products.

What toxins cause birth defects?

These dangerous chemicals include phthalates, bisphenol-A (BPA) and flame retardants . Their impacts can manifest in the short term as birth defects or later in life as problems with reproduction, obesity, diabetes, hormonal balance or even cancers.

Can inhaling chemicals cause miscarriage?

If you inhale (breathe in) solvents, you risk liver, kidney and brain damage and even death . During pregnancy, exposure to (coming in contact with) solvents, especially if you work with them, may cause problems for you and your baby, including: Miscarriage.

What birth defects are caused by radiation?

“These birth defects include a reduction in height, severe mental retardation, small head size and impaired brain development , the latter of which may indirectly reduce an individual’s intelligence quotient (IQ) and school performance” (Washington State Dept of Health).

How much radiation is safe for a fetus?

United States Nuclear Regulation Commission (USNRC) also recommends total fetus exposure during pregnancy to be less than 5.0 mSv (500 mrem). The fetus radiation dose below 50 mGy is considered safe and not cause any harm.

What are the effects of radiation on a fetus?

Large radiation doses to the fetus during the more sensitive stages of development (between weeks 2 and 18 of pregnancy) can cause birth defects , especially to the brain.

Can I clean the bathroom while pregnant?

Unfortunately, ladies, most products are safe to use for cleaning during pregnancy . Yes, even bleach. So you don’t have to call a maid to do the household cleaning unless you want to.

What does vinegar do to a pregnant person?

Apple cider vinegar may help with morning sickness

The acids in ACV are known to possibly help certain other gastrointestinal disturbances. As such, it may help some women with nausea brought on by pregnancy.

Is it OK to have vinegar during pregnancy?

Vinegar is commonly considered as safe during pregnancy because it doesn’t appear on the American Pregnancy Association’s list of foods to avoid during pregnancy.

Can formaldehyde cause birth defects?

Formaldehyde exposure at both workplace and typical household levels has not been linked to birth defects . 2 The best strategy during pregnancy is to reduce exposure as much as possible through fresh air supply and ventilation, and the other steps discussed on in Q5 of this factsheet.

What is a toxic pregnancy?

Preeclampsia , formerly called toxemia, is when pregnant women have high blood pressure, protein in their urine, and swelling in their legs, feet, and hands. It can range from mild to severe. It usually happens late in pregnancy, though it can come earlier or just after delivery.

What birth defects does lead cause?

High levels of lead during pregnancy can cause miscarriage and stillbirth . Other pregnancy problems, such as low birth weight/poor growth, premature delivery, and preeclampsia (pregnancy complications, such as high blood pressure, that usually happens after week 20) can also occur.

What happens if you inhale cleaning products while pregnant?

Some evidence shows that using cleaning sprays, air fresheners and solvents during pregnancy may increase the risk of wheezing and infections for children after birth . However, much more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between exposure to chemicals and the risk of developing asthma.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.