If you are pregnant, it is a good idea for you and your partner to look at your environment, both at home and at work. You may need to take steps to avoid exposure to potentially harmful substances and conditions.

Household Chemicals:
Cleaning substances, lawn chemicals, paints, insecticides, pesticides, are some of the possible hazards at home.

Cat Litter:
Toxoplasmosis is a parasite transmitted to humans by contact with feces of an infected cat. During pregnancy, have someone else change cat litter. Use proper hand washing. 

Unpasteurized Milk Products:
A disease called Listeriosis caused by bacteria from unpasteurized milk and mild products, can lead to miscarriage, infection of the newborn or stillbirth. Avoid unpasteurized milk products such as soft cheeses like queso blanco, queso frescco, feta, brie, camembert, and blue cheese. Wash produce thoroughly and cook meat well. 

Fish and Seafood:
Methyl-mercury and PCB's are found in some fish and seafood and can adversely affect the fetus. Limit swordfish, shark, fresh/frozen tuna, lake trout and walleye to one meal/month. Canned tuna and salmon are fine.

Injuries From Not Wearing Seatbelts:
Everyone, including pregnant women, should wear seatbelts for every journey in a vehicle. The lap belt must be worn low and fit snugly across the hips, not directly over the abdomen. The shoulder belt must also be worn properly over the woman's shoulder and across the chest (never tucked behind the back).

Hair Dye and Perms:
Some chemicals used in hair dye and perms may be harmful to the developing fetus. Call the Motherisk's Home Line - 416-813-6780 - for information about the risk or safety of prescription and over-the-counter drugs, herbalproducts, chemicals, x-rays, chronic disease and infections during pregnancy. Go to Motherisk.

Insect repellent:
Due to risk of West Nile Virus and Lyme Disease, it is important to take precautions to avoid exposure to mosquitoes and ticks. Methods to avoid bites include wearing protective clothing, limiting time spent outdoors at dawn and dusk and using an insect repellent.

Women are often concerned about using insect repellents containing DEET, but a recent review of research provides reassurance. According to the Canadian Society for Clinical Pharmacology (published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, Aug. 2003), "There is no evidence that the use of DEET by pregnant or lactating women poses a health hazard to unborn babies or children who are breastfeeding." DEET-based insect repellents are considered safe when used as recommended. 

For further information, contact Motherisk. 

Exposure to: 
Chicken Pox, Rubella, Parvovirus B19 (Fifth Disease), & STI's

Hobbies:
Some hobbies can expose you to potentially harmful substances such as lacquer, paint thinners, paint and varnish removers, cleaning solvents, lead, plastics, and adhesives. Although it's not known for sure whether the mother's exposure to these substances can harm the fetus, it is wise to avoid them whenever possible before and during pregnancy. Reduce your risk by wearing rubber gloves and working in a well-ventilated area.

Computer Monitors:
Current research suggests that computer monitors (VDTs) are safe to use during pregnancy. To enhance health during pregnancy, it is suggested that women take 5-minute breaks every hour to get away from the screen and away from a static sitting position at the computer.

For more information:
If you are not sure whether a substance is harmful, ask your health care provider for advice, or call Motherisk at 416-813-6780. 

Motherisk is an excellent site for information and guidance concerning the potential risks to the developing fetus or infant from exposure to chemicals, radiation, and environmental agents.