We have even more evidence showing that mom-to-be’s exposure to certain everyday household chemicals can affect fertility and baby’s long-term health.
Mom-to-be’s exposure to phthalates during pregnancy can be bad for baby.
Thyroid
Early exposure to specific phthalates are associated with lowered thyroid function in girls.
The thyroid is our “master gland” and controls numerous functions in the body. Lowered thyroid function can affect brain development, hormonal balance, growth and fertility.
Hormonal imbalances
Phthalates are endocrine disruptors which means.... they mess with hormones. Phthalates can have hormone disrupting effects such as suppressing ovulation. They can also contribute to PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome).
Asthma, Motor Development
Exposure to phthalates have also been associated with childhood asthma, and mental and motor development problems in young children.
Lowered IQ
Prenatal expsosure to phthalates is linked to lowered IQ in school-age children.
Aggression, ADHD and Autism- like behaviors
Other studies have found that mothers to-be who are exposed to phthalates may increase the risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and behaviors that resemble components of autism in their future children.
Scientists at Mount Sinai School of Medicine reported that mothers who had high levels of phthalates during their pregnancies were more likely to have children with poorer scores in the areas of attention, aggression and conduct
What are they & where are they found?
Phthalates are chemicals added to plastics to make them strong and flexible. They are also found in paints, glues, insect repellants, hair spray, nail polish, perfumes, lotions, shampoos, soaps, hair color, deodorants (and other personal care products), dryer sheets, air fresheners, recyclable plastics # 3, 6, or 7.
What can you do about it?
The bad news is .... they are everywhere and we cannot avoid them completely, unfortunately.
However, it is a really good idea to become aware of these toxins and limit and reduce your exposure to these chemicals as much as possible starting at least 3-6 months before you plan to conceive.
Make sure your detox pathways are working, your liver and gut are supported and limit your exposure as much as possible.
Phthalates are considered an endocrine disruptor compounds (EDC). More articles to come about these EDCs!
Sources:
Columbia University. Mailman School of Public Health
Environmental Health 2008, 7:50 doi:10.1186/1476-069X-7-50
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