What kinds of chemicals should I avoid if I am trying to become pregnant or conceive a baby? How can I reduce my risk of exposure?

If you use well water from a private supply, have it tested. This can include testing for chemicals or impurities. Some of these, including lead and mercury could be harmful. Learn more about testing here.

There are some chemicals you should avoid when you’re trying to become pregnant or conceive a baby. These include lead, mercury, solvents and pesticides.

Lead

Lead can harm your nervous system, bloodstream and kidney health.

You can reduce your risk of exposure to lead by:

• dusting your house regularly
• taking off your shoes at the door
• having water tested if you use a private water supply
• testing older paint before you remove it as older paint can contain lead
• having family members, who may work with lead, change their clothes and shower as soon as they come home

Here are some other ways to avoid lead.

Some crystal contains lead. Some pottery or ceramics have lead in the glaze. Don’t store food or beverages in containers if you’re not sure if it has lead in it.

Some toys or jewellery that are made outside of North America, may have lead in them. Check labels. If you are not sure about whether the product has lead or not, don’t buy or use it.

For more information visit Government of Canada- Reduce your exposure to Lead

Mercury

Some forms of mercury can be harmful at high levels.  A person with a high level of mercury can also have trouble becoming pregnant or staying pregnant.

Learn more about how to reduce your exposure to mercury in fish or shellfish.

If you are exposed to mercury in the workplace it can lead to mental and physical changes that can have serious negative health effects.

For more information about mercury and health, visit  Mercury: Your Health and the Environment: A Resource Tool – Canada.ca

Solvents

Solvents may cause breathing problems and damage organs (e.g., kidneys, liver, reproductive).

You can reduce your risk of exposure to solvents by:

• following the instructions on the label when using cleaning products
• considering the use of solvent-free cleaning products or those using mild detergents or acids (e.g., vinegar)
• using only the recommended amount of the product
• following any safety precautions listed on the label, such as using in a well-ventilated area, or wearing gloves
• washing your hands before and after handling solvents

Pesticides

Pesticides can cause headaches, nausea or dizziness and can lead to nerve damage or hormonal imbalances.

You can reduce your risk of exposure to pesticides by:

• using only the recommended amount of the product
• following any safety precautions listed on the label, such as using in a well-ventilated area, or wearing gloves
• washing your hands before and after handling pesticides
• reading the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) in your workplace

Learn more about occupational hazards.

Learn more about environmental hazards to see how many of these substances you come in contact with throughout your day.