Knowing and understanding prenatal environmental risks can feel overwhelming when every choice seems to matter.
When it comes to your pregnancy, getting a comprehensive grasp on the things that can put you and your baby in jeopardy is essential.
This guide offers clear steps so you can protect your growing baby with confidence.
Simple changes truly make a big difference. So read ahead to help set your mind at ease.
What Are Prenatal Environmental Risks?
The sensitivity of your pregnancy can increase when you come in contact with certain exposures.
Hormone shifts and a developing placenta mean small amounts of some chemicals can have larger effects.
Common concerns include heavy metals like lead and mercury, pesticides on produce, solvents in some cleaners and paints, and endocrine disruptors such as BPA and phthalates.
Everyday Household Hazards
Do I have to replace all my plastics?
- Choose fragrance free cleaning products, avoid spray solvents, and ventilate when you mop or wipe
- Use low VOC paint for projects and open windows while it dries
- Store chemicals safely, never mix products, and wear gloves when needed
- Ask someone else to change cat litter to reduce toxoplasmosis risk
No, instead just focus on food contact. Try to use glass or stainless steel for hot foods and liquids, avoid microwaving plastic, and limit plastics numbered 3 and 7 that may contain phthalates or BPA.
Food and Water Safety
- Eat two to three servings a week of low mercury fish like salmon or sardines. Avoid shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish
- Choose pasteurized dairy and juices, and reheat deli meats until steaming to lower listeria risk
- Limit caffeine to about 200 milligrams per day, avoid alcohol during pregnancy
- If your home has older pipes, use a certified filter for lead and run cold water until it turns cool
Is sushi ever okay?
If you must eat sushi, choose fully cooked rolls, and skip raw fish altogether to lower the risk of infection.
Air Quality and Secondhand Smoke
- Keep your home smoke free, and avoid secondhand and thirdhand smoke
- Replace furnace filters as directed, and vacuum with a HEPA filter to reduce dust
- Test for radon if you have a basement or ground floor living area, fix high levels promptly
Are scented candles safe?
Use sparingly, they’re not a necessity. If you must use them, ventilate your space. Unscented or beeswax options can be better, and reduce soot and VOC exposure.
Work, Hobbies, and Travel
- If you work with chemicals, review Safety Data Sheets, request protective gear, and ask about temporary task adjustments
- Wear a mask and gloves for gardening, avoid pesticides, and wash after soil contact
- On flights, move around, drink water, and avoid aerosol products in tight spaces
Simple Ways to Lower Exposure
- Open windows briefly when outdoor air is good
- Wet dust and damp mop to trap particles
- Leave shoes at the door to reduce pesticides and lead dust
- Build meals around whole foods, fiber, and calcium to support detox pathways
Talk with your provider about prenatal environmental risks, and keep a short list of the top three changes you will make this week.
The Care You Need Is Waiting for You
Small choices add up, and you deserve steady, calm guidance as you care for yourself and your baby.
Our team of compassionate and intentional, expert providers at Capital Women’s Care is here to support you the way you deserve.
If you are ready for clear answers and thoughtful support tailored to your pregnancy, request an appointment online or give us a call today at 410-314-0001
Speak with a team that listens, helps you prioritize what matters most, and walks beside you so this season of your life feels safer, lighter, and more informed.
Leave a Reply