Yale: Pregnant Women Should Avoid Chemlawn®

Pregnant mice are being used to test the effects of methoxychlor, a pesticide that has recently been banned by Yale University School of Medicine researchers who are finding that it causes hormone changes that affect the lining of the uterus of mice. The pesticide is in the family of chemicals called "endocrine disrupters" that could lead to a generation of infertile offspring. It’s believed the pesticide may have a similar effect on humans. Other endocrine disrupters include alkylphenol ethoxylates and atrazine. Safe levels of such compounds are unknown, but studies from the past 20 years show that relatively low exposure has the potential of harming fetuses at vulnerable times, such as around conception and during fetal growth. Using organic produce, washing vegetables and fruits them thoroughly, and peeling them may help to reduce, but not eliminate, pesticide exposure. Nix lawn services that spray lawns with pest and weed killers that could get tracked into the house, too. Click here for more information on endocrine disrupters and nontoxic pesticide options.