Question

Due to our reliance on chemicals to solve everyday problems, we live in a world in which potential teratogens are becoming more abundant. Identify and research at least three items in your home that can be considered a potentially harmful an unborn child and then search or potential teratogenic effects for each item. Must be at least 300 words in APA format.

Answer 1

• Teratogens may cause a birth defect in the child. Or a teratogen may halt the pregnancy outright. The classes of teratogens include radiation, maternal infections, chemicals, and drugs.
• Lead is a hazardous substance that should be avoided at all times. It is particularly important to avoid when pregnant as it is passed freely from mother to child via the placenta. The risk of lead exposure also arises from the handling of crystal, ceramics pottery or utensils used in homes, scented candle wicks, plastic handle grips and arts and crafts materials also contain lead. Even drinking water can be contaminated from leaded pipes.
• Certain types of fish and other seafood contain high levels of mercury, which can pose a risk of teratogenic effects on an unborn child. The longer a fish lives the more mercury accumulates in its tissues.
• By and large, that which is toxic to the general population is also toxic to developing fetuses. Carbon monoxide is one such example. Many residential areas are adding carbon monoxide monitors to alert people in the event of dangerous levels of this gas in the environment. The primary sources of carbon monoxide are furnace gas fumes, automobile exhaust, cigarette smoke and industrial exhaust.Woman at home are mostly exposed to gas furnace all the time which can be harmful.
• Chlorinated drinking water has gained significant controversy due to its possible risks in pregnancy. Evidence shows the chlorine in the water can react with other materials to form teratogenic materials called trihalomethanes. Studies suggest consumption of chlorinated drinking water can increase the risk of miscarriage and poor fetal growth. For this reason cleaning products containing chlorine should also be avoided during pregnancy.
• Consider any renovation done in your home potentially harmful to your baby. Avoid toxic fumes emitted by new carpeting, vinyl floors and furniture.Avoid solvents found in nail polish, artificial nails, hair coloring, hair spray and perfumes
• Aspartame, sucralose, and acesulfame-potassium are used in many foods such as soft drinks, desserts, yogurt, fruit spreads, salad dressings, chewing gum, and candy. These should be used sparingly during pregnancy.
• Even caffeine has teratogenic effects,not only is caffeine toxic to the baby’s developing nervous system but it also interferes with iron absorption and the body’s ability to effectively use insulin.Pregnant women should stay away or limit coffee drinking.