Pregnancy and Plastics Don't Mix
Bisphenol A, more commonly known as BPA, is a chemical usedto make food can linings, eye glasses, bike helmets, thermal receipt paper,polycarbonate plastics and many other everyday items.
For years, scientists have warned us about negative healtheffects of BPA exposure, including the increased risk for breast cancer,prostate cancer, metabolic diseases, decreased fertility, early puberty,neurological problems and immune system dysfunction.
Because of the public outcry in response to these risks, manufacturerswere forced to remove BPA from baby bottles and infant formula containers. But a closer look at the science tells us that protecting infants and children is not quite enough. In fact, it is becoming clear that fetal exposure is of even greater concern than childhood exposure to BPA. This means that women who are pregnant or who plan to become pregnant need to make extra efforts to avoid BPA.
BPA reaches fetus through the mother’s bloodstream and theplacenta only partially protects the fetus from BPA exposure. It is during theprenatal period that the foundation is set for how our bodies develop. The chemicals that influence the growth of thebreasts, reproductive organs and the hormonal system can determine theirfunction even decades later. More to the point, fetal exposure to toxins,especially to endocrine disruptors like BPA, can set the stage for many laterlife diseases and behavioral abnormalities.
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We can do our best to avoid this chemical by not usingcanned foods or any of the products made with BPA. However, many of us are notaware that we are exposed and the immediate health effects may not be obviousor even seen until the next generation.
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If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant,specialized lab testing for BPA and other environmental toxin levels in your bloodstream is available. Also, this specialized evaluation of your toxic burden is an integralpart of my Pre-Conception Optimization Program at Marin Natural Medicine Clinic.
Avoiding BPA is an investment in our own health, as well asthat of future generations.
