How to Avoid Phthalates When Pregnant

Phthalates are chemical plasticizers present in a wide variety of products, mostly plastic products. The plasticizers, however, aren't bound to the plastic itself, which means they can be repeatedly released into the environment as the plastic is reused. Some phthalates have been banned from items like children's toys, but the chemicals still exist in other items. Pregnant women exposed to the chemicals are at some risk of pre-term delivery, according to a 2013 study published in the "Journal of the America Medical Association." Discuss these potential dangers with your doctor, but the in meantime there are several things you can do to help avoid these substances while you're pregnant.

  1. Skip the Plastic

    • Choose non-plastic items whenever possible. For example, don't drink from plastic water bottles or store leftover food in plastic storage containers. Opt for glass versions instead. Glass doesn't contain phthalates. Stainless steel water bottles offer another option. When you do purchase plastic, look for versions labeled as BPA-free or with 1, 2, 4 or 5. Other ways to avoid plastic are to use fabric shower curtains in place of plastic ones and to use paper bags or a cloth lunch bag in place of plastic lunch boxes.

    Choose Personal Products With Care

    • Many cosmetic and personal hygiene products, such as shampoo, soap and lotion, contain phthalates, according to the Committee on the Health Risks of Phthalates. Insect repellent might also contain phthalates. Labels that contain the words "fragrance" or "parfum" on the ingredient list most likely contain phthalates, as well. Look for personal products that are labeled as phthalate-free or opt for all natural products. Speak with your doctor, however, about what types of natural items and home remedies are safe before using them.

    Purchase Foods With Less Packaging

    • Buy food that's as minimally packaged as possible. For example, purchase fresh meat at the grocery store instead of buying meat packaged on plastic trays, which trays often contain phthalates. The plastic in which cheese is packaged might also contain phthalates. Scraping off a thin layer of meat or cheese before eating it can help remove some of the phthalates. Opt for fresh fruits and vegetables over canned versions, as the lining of aluminum cans often contains phthalates.

    Clean Your House

    • Keep your house clean. Phthalates are often present in carpets and wood floors, and when they come into contact with sunlight, the chemicals are released. Wet mopping, vacuuming and dusting can cut down on how much of the chemicals are present in your home. Open windows to keep the air cleaner, but don't use air fresheners or scented candles because many of these contain phthalates, according to the BabyCenter website.

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