Chemical exposure and miscarriage
Exposure to certain chemicals on a regular basis during pregnancy has been linked to increased rates of miscarriage.1
The use of the medicine isotretinoin (such as Accutane) for the treatment of acne during pregnancy has been shown to increase the risk of miscarriage and to cause birth defects.2, 3
Chemicals that may increase a woman's chance of having a miscarriage include:
- Many medicines used to treat ongoing illnesses, including diabetes. Before conceiving, or as soon as you become aware that you are pregnant, talk to your health professional about any medicines you are taking.
- Anesthetic gases.1
- Tetrachloroethylene (used in dry cleaning).2
- Arsenic, lead, formaldehyde, benzene, and ethylene oxide.1
- Alcohol consumption, which can also cause birth defects and mental retardation. There is no known safe amount of alcohol intake during pregnancy. The safest course is to avoid alcohol entirely while you are pregnant.
- Cocaine.
| Author: | Kathe Gallagher, MSW Carrie Henley | Last Updated: June 28, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology | |
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