Household Toxins to Avoid During Pregnancy

How to Find Hidden Toxins in your home and eliminate them

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When you become pregnant you are not only responsible for your own health. You now have an growing fetus totally dependent on you in order to to grow and develop into a healthy baby. Before pregnancy you may not have had to question yourself over going about your daily life and tasks. Even before pregnancy it is a good idea to do your research on any products you are using that may contain toxins harmful to a developing fetus.

Here is a list of some products that is best to avoid during pregnancy to ensure the safety of yourself as well as your baby.

1. Paint. There has been very little research carried out to determine the effects that paint fumes have on unborn babies. The results on these few studies show that the risk is extremely low. Because there have only been a small amount of studies conducted there is no way to know for sure so it may be best to hold of on any painting during pregnancy. This doesn't mean that you can't decorate or set up your baby's nursery. Instead of repainting the wall consider other decor options such as wallpaper, wallpaper border, tapestry wall hangings, or wall stickers.

2. Cleaning products such as bleach, air fresheners, and toilet deodorant pucks contain toxic chemicals that have been proven to cause birth defects, asthma, and hormone disruption. Consider making your own cleaning products such as all purpose cleaner, These are all made with natural ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. 

3. Dryer sheets and fabric softener. Dryer sheets contain Chemicals which are left as residue on your clothes after becoming dry. While clothes are worn this residue makes contact with the skin and is also breathed in. These products not only affect women who are pregnant and unborn babies but also can affect anyone. Risks include allergies,  skin disorders, cancers, and kidney or liver damage. Consider safer alternatives such as using vinegar in the final wash rinse, place a crumbed ball of aluminium foil in the dryer to help elite static, or line dry clothes outside for a natural fresh air smell.

4. Synthetic fragrances. Deodorants and perfumes are the biggest culprits when it comes to containing high levels of chemicals. When these products are applied to the skin they are also absorbed into the skin. Look for more natural alternatives and give up the perfume totally. It will save you money and keep you and your baby safe.

5. BPA packaged foods. BPA is a toxin founds in foods packaged in plastic containers and the material which line the cans for food and drinks. The dangers of BPA are not limited to women who are pregnant but to everyone who consumes them. BPA has been linked to cancer, heart disease, liver problems, and fertility issues. In babies BPA has been tied to low birth weight and defects in brain function. To be safe stick to fresh or frozen foods and foods stored in glass containers or non-BPA cans.

6. Second hand smoke. Exposure to smoke can put you at risk of having a miscarriage, pre-term births, and low-weight babies at full-term. Do not hesitate on moving away from someone who may be smoking near you or not allowing anyone to smoke inside your home.

7. Pesticides. Pesticides which are found in foods, pest control products, and lawn treatment products. Pesticides have been known to cause birth defects, neurological problems, and developmental delay.