Industrial Born Perils: Four Dangerous Chemicals in Drinking Water During Pregnancy – Pregnancy prompts mothers to be vigilant about substances, creating a healthy environment for their developing babies. This period becomes a dedicated time for increased awareness and conscious choices to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the unborn child.
One often underestimated concern is the presence of industrial-born chemicals in drinking water. In this article, we’ll examine four chemicals posing significant risks during pregnancy and discuss their potential impact on maternal and fetal health.
Table of Contents
Bisphenol A (BPA)
BPA is a synthetic compound commonly used in the production of plastics, epoxy resins, and thermal paper. It can leach into water sources from plastic containers and linings, especially when exposed to heat or sunlight. Unfortunately, human contamination by BPA is prevalent.
The European Environment Agency conducted a recent study involving 2,756 adults across 11 European countries. The study measured BPA and its substitutes, bisphenol S and bisphenol F, in urine. The findings showed that BPA exceedance levels ranged from 71% to 100%, highlighting a worrisome high population exposure throughout Europe.
Recognizing the potential health risks associated with elevated BPA exposure, studies have linked it to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Research documented by the National Library of Medicine reveals that BPA exposure during pregnancy is linked to multiple placenta-associated obstetric complications. These include preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, miscarriage, and preterm birth.
In light of these findings, it is crucial to take proactive measures to reduce BPA exposure. Choosing BPA-free water bottles and containers is a proactive step to mitigate risks. Alternatives like glass or stainless steel provide a safer choice for expectant mothers and their developing babies.
Phthalates
Phthalates are a group of industrial chemicals found in plastics, personal care products, and even in some water pipes. These chemicals can disrupt the endocrine system and have been associated with various reproductive issues.
Findings from the National Institutes for Health show that an analysis of data from over 6,000 pregnant women in the United States was conducted. The results unveiled a correlation between higher concentrations of specific phthalate metabolites in urine.
This correlation was associated with an increased likelihood of preterm birth, defined as delivery three or more weeks before the due date. Specifically, exposure to four out of the 11 phthalates detected in pregnant women was associated with a 14-16% greater probability of experiencing preterm birth.
In light of these concerning findings, pregnant women should be proactive in minimizing phthalate exposure. Choosing phthalate-free personal care products is an effective measure to safeguard maternal and fetal health. Additionally, investing in water filters designed to remove these chemicals from drinking water adds an extra layer of protection.
Chlorinated Solvents
Industrial chemicals like trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE), classified as chlorinated solvents, are widely used in degreasing and dry-cleaning activities. The improper disposal and leaks from storage tanks have allowed these solvents to seep into the soil, leading to the contamination of groundwater sources.
Prolonged consumption of chlorinated solvents in drinking water has been linked to various health risks. According to the CDC, extended exposure to trichloroethylene (TCE) during pregnancy increases the likelihood of infants being born with heart defects.
Similarly, drinking water contaminated with perchloroethylene (PCE) is associated with delayed time-to-pregnancy, higher risks of placental abruption, and stillbirths resulting from placental dysfunction.
Notably, the infamous Camp Lejeune water contamination incident exemplifies the severe consequences of chlorinated solvents. Around one million military and civilian personnel, along with their families, may have been exposed to contaminated drinking water.
ATSDR conducted studies linking the toxic water at Camp Lejeune to an increased risk of neural tube birth defects. These defects include conditions like spina bifida and anencephaly.
Furthermore, according to Consumer Notice, a study conducted in 2003 reported a shocking statistic. The rate of certain birth defects at Camp Lejeune was 265 times higher than the national average.
Mothers residing on the base and exposed to contaminated water reported a higher incidence of miscarriages and stillbirths. They also voiced concerns about the military’s response to the situation, seeking transparency and accountability, as reported by TorHoerman Law.
The revelation of heightened risks of birth defects and health issues due to water contamination at Camp Lejeune has ignited a public outcry. Military personnel and their families stationed at the base are expressing concern and seeking answers regarding the potential health consequences.
Frustrated by what they perceive as an insufficient military response, affected individuals have taken legal action by filing the Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit.
These legal proceedings have a clear objective: to hold accountable the parties responsible for the toxic water exposure. They seek justice for the health consequences experienced by those who lived on the base at Camp Lejeune.
Perchlorate
Perchlorate is an industrial chemical used in the production of rocket fuel, fireworks, and explosives. It can contaminate water sources and interfere with the thyroid gland’s ability to produce hormones essential for fetal development.
According to News-Medical, this chemical hinders iodine absorption by inhibiting the sodium-iodide symporter channel, leading to compromised biosynthesis of thyroid hormones. Exposure to perchlorate during pregnancy has been linked to developmental delays and intellectual impairments in children.
In conclusion, navigating the complexities of modern living underscores the need for pregnant women to be vigilant about potential hazards in their environment. This includes being mindful of the water they consume to ensure a healthy and safe pregnancy.
Understanding and addressing the risks of industrial-born chemicals in drinking water empowers expectant mothers to take proactive measures. By minimizing exposure, they safeguard their health and contribute to the optimal development of their precious little ones.
