If you have a task that involves chemicals (such as some types of cleaning), ask someone else to do it. In addition, studies show that higher VOC levels in childrens bedrooms increase the risk of multiple respiratory disorders. Epidemiology 23(6): 806-812. https://journals.lww.com/epidem/Fulltext/2012/11000/Exposure_During_Pregnancy_to_Glycol_Ethers_and.8.aspx [Accessed October 2021], Desrosiers TA, et al. Worse still, prolonged exposure can lead to wood stain poisoning. Good luck. Red wine is a perfect choice if you want a non-traditional color. Anyone else have experience with this? Also, ensure that you work in a well-ventilated area if you have an oil-based formula. The chemical bisphenol A (BPA) is found in most plastics, and can pass from a mother to her baby in the womb. Unfortunately, stain fumes persist for a long, long duration, and youll end up inhaling the fumes. Aside from the dust and fumes, refinishing your hardwood BEFORE the baby is born is a bad idea, IMO. I have done many, many projects while pregnant. Specific types of VOC, such as propylene glycol and glycol ethers, result in a higher likelihood of eczema, asthma, and rhinitis. Not sure if it's the same was flooring but I just thought I'd share. BabyCentre notes that one particular birth defect, known as gastroschisis, is thought to occur more frequently in women with paint fume exposure. But too much exposure/ingestion of fluoride could be toxic. Breathing paint fumes isn't great for anyone, let alone pregnant women. I didnt get a period for 4 months and found myself pregnant now and i am staining brown already for 3 days what could it be? Prolonged exposure to these products without proper ventilation can also result in wood stain poisoning. Might cost $100-$200 in heat over 5 days if you really opened things up but should be less. I just went through this exact thing over the weekend. These processes may include metal smelting arsenic trioxide is a by-product of such a process. Also, please seek medical attention if you notice more pain or problems with your vision. Also, please follow the direction of the grain to get a more sophisticated result. Dizziness also accompanies nausea and will make you feel faint. 2. Wearing gloves would be beneficial. But scientists have discovered that PBDEs could potentially cause developmental neurotoxicity in pregnant woman and it could affect the fetal development of the brain, and the brains of young kids too. Read more on raisingchildren.net.au website. But you can explore other food-safe wood stain options for your kitchen project. You can begin the safety journey by always adhering to the usage instructions associated with any household products. It is always best to avoid exposure to bleach while pregnant. This presents a problem, although the major source of human exposure is through diet. Most chemicals you come across in your daily life wont harm your baby. Refinishing furniture can expose you to solvents that may have risks for your baby. Keep Flames Away. And even worse, it destroys the central nervous system. Finally, apply an encapsulating sealer. Organic solvents consist of organic compounds and these may be made up of aromatic compounds such as benzene and toluene, alcohols such as methanol, esters and ethers, in addition to many other compounds. it obviously doesnt smell great but it shouldnt harm your baby. Is It Safe To Varnish Wood While Pregnant? Yes, off-gassing has effects, especially when you place furniture with toxic stains in a small, poorly ventilated environment. I have done many, many projects while pregnant. How Long Does it Take for Wood Glue to Dry? think twice before sharing personal details, foster a friendly and supportive environment, remove fake accounts, spam and misinformation, delete posts that violate our community guidelines, reviewed by our medical review board and team of experts. Charcoal masks or surgical masks will not protect you from these chemicals. Ensure that you also wipe off the excess stain immediately. Don't ditch the mask Image from iStock From hair dye to house paints, there are a few products or lifestyle habits pregnant women and their partners should be cautious of during pregnancy. Prevent poisoning in children by storing medicines, chemicals and cleaners up high in a locked cupboard. Thus, you cannot avoid breathing in and out during the staining job. This way, you allow paint fumes to exit the space. Privacy Policy and we hired someone to refinish the upstairs floors in our house. Like pp said, turn on a fan, open the windows get some fresh air. That's the latest advice from experts to Australians who have an attached adult tick. Therefore, the formula is safer to use even for long working sessions. Is it an emergency? Phthalates are all around us and can get into the body via ingestion, absorption and inhalation, but thankfully the U.S. have now started to ban the use of phthalates in certain products. Once the polyurethane finish has dried and cured, it is generally considered to be safe, but during the drying and curing process, the finish releases potentially harmful chemicals into the air via evaporation, a process called off-gassing.Depending on the product applied, the temperature and humidity conditions in which it was applied, and the ventilation of the room where it was applied, off . In addition, manufacturers should regularly test their products to confirm user safety. Poisonous gases are released and it's a carcinogen too - capable of causing cancer. yeah it smells gross but youll be fine! 1) Try to find wood that is natural so that the dust is less toxic. -decided on low VOC water based poly to minimize fumes/environmental impact -hung two sets of plastic sheeting-one at the bottom of the stairs, one at the top--made sure they were sealed well -taped garbage bags to the floor over the upstairs door thresholds and kept wet towels on both sides to keep fumes at bay. However, please beware as it is a bit lighter than coffee. Today, the ingredients of wood stains are more complicated. You may also observe blood in the vomit as the fumes burn the gut and stomach wall. exposed to stain and polyurethane pregnancy. Therefore, you might ask yourself what are polyurethane fumes and how to . According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, over one million pounds of BPA are released into the environment every year. Also, you will deliver a deep color with three coats. the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information. Urethane and acrylic stains contain the greatest amounts of petroleum-based solvents. Very high levels can lead to premature birth, low birth weight, or even miscarriage or stillbirth. Its used -or was until 1972 when it was cancelled by the United States Environmental Protection Agency - in a number of different industries, including in pesticides for insect eradication. Its added to drinking water in order to kill off germs and bacteria that might cause contamination and therefore risk public health. Then, soak a cloth into the solution and apply it to the wood. Special formulations are now available, specifically designed for those people suffering from asthma, chemical sensitivities, and allergies. And by the way if you have seen the equipment the guys wear while they lay the finish, they're like super duper ventilator masks so obviously don't be around while they do the finish. Its usually found in combination with other substances such as sulfur and different metals and its released into the environment due to certain human activities. Weighted blankets are they safe for kids or during pregnancy? Its also in the earths crust and can be found in rocks, in the soil and the air. Just make sure to avoid contact with the skin and be careful not to inhale the fumes. Some of the most affected body parts include: You need your eyes to see the area you are staining. Limit your exposure to fumes by working outside or in a well-ventilated area. The resins theyre used to make are epoxy resins used to coat food and drink cans, line water pipes etc. May 2, 2022. Group Leaders communicate with staff moderators and escalate potential violations for review, but they dont moderate discussions. Mercurys a chemical element thats present naturally in the environment, so having zero exposure to mercury is therefore impossible. The move even sounds quite comic! I couldn't stay for 2 nights because of our one-level condo and no ventilation. should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition, nor should it be used for therapeutic This is a no-go during pregnancy, especially early on. Pregnancy, Birth and Babys information and advice are developed and managed within a rigorous This poisoning affects various internal body systems such as the nervous, respiratory, digestive, and vascular systems. But I have slept at home every night. So, you wonder what could be some of the. These fumes can cause nose and throat irritations, headaches, dizziness, nausea, and eye and skin irritations. Always keep in mind that these VOCs are carcinogenic, and their impact may even be long-lasting for some individuals. Avoid eating and drinking while working with the products. Sudden reduction in blood pressure or hypotension. We have been remodeling the room we are using for her nursery (knocking down walls, dry wall, paint, ect. Look for products that don't contain solvents (such as toluene) and that will clean up with water. 15 Materials That Are Super Dangerous For Pregnant Women, How Pregnancy Cause Long Lasting Changes In A Woman's Brain, 10 Delicious Mocktail Recipes for Fall Festivities. connection to land, sea and community. Try and get your tongue around this one: Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, but Ill just refer to it as DDT. Of course, oil-based formulas have more harmful solvents. The effects of the staining vapor should be almost gone as far as ill effects on your pregnancy. Attarchi MS, et al. Prolonged exposure to these toxic fumes could result in brain damage or even death. Website for moms seeking advice, community, and entertainment. Sometimes you are so eager to stain the floors of your house before thanksgiving or the arrival of a baby, only to realize that the formula produces a long-lingering and overpowering smell. High levels of lead in the body can affect the health of unborn babies and children. HealthTap uses cookies to enhance your site experience and for analytics and advertising purposes. Might make you feel better anyway. is it safe for me to be using wood stain to stain the baby crib or will it cause harm to the baby? Scientists have discovered that toxic exposure to environmental toxins during childhood could linger in your system and therefore affect your baby once youve grown up and are pregnant. There have been a few studies that have revealed that these chemicals could cause miscarriage or fetal abnormalities; sticking to bottled or filtered water would be the safest way to go during pregnancy. Yes, stain fumes can be harmful. For example, hot and humid spaces increase the rate and cause more hazardous effects. Outdoor wood is often treated with copper, chromium or arsenic to protect it from dry rot, fungi, mould and termites. After its inhaled its taken directly from the blood to the lungs where it can cause a whole host of problems. If your work involves exposure to chemicals, talk to your employer. Long-term exposure, even at low doses could have health implications which could be long-lasting. Now is the perfect time to start your Baby Registry! Inhaling Fumes While Pregnant: How to Ensure a Safer Pregnancy During Painting Works 1. Off gassing is a process when chemicals that are found in materials are introduced into a regulated climate . Usually its such a small amount that you dont need to worry, but its still a good idea to avoid some toxic products while you're pregnant. Shes also a yoga teacher, and lives in a cabin in northern Minnesota with her partner, Karla, and their two very spoiled potbellied pigs. So Im kind of freaking out! To learn more, please visit our. To be safe, let someone else do that job, or wait to do the work yourself after your baby is born (although you probably don't want your newborn baby around these chemicals, either). If you do decide to refinish furniture, take these precautions: If you're required to refinish furniture as part of your job, meet with an industrial hygienist or occupational medicine physician to talk about safe work practices, such as wearing personal protective equipment. So, you will no longer worry about fumes once the finish cures. Most wood stains are not tested for food safety, and therefore cannot be labeled food safe, but are manufactured to comply with FDA regulations for food safety. However, the risk of harm is higher if you have stains with solvents instead of water. By Josh Arnold Updated December 17, 2018. If you work in an area where organic solvents are rife, ensure the areas well ventilated or wear a mouth and nose covering. Dr. Caren Reaves answered Obstetrics and Gynecology 26 years experience Yes: It would be best to do in a well ventilated space and to use liquid stain instead of aerosol sprays. When ingested or inhaled, arsenics absorbed into the blood stream and the majority of its expelled in the urine. Your fetuss minute form on the other hand, is not. Theyre basically chemicals which have been dissolved in other substances. Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone. What makes a flame retardant a flame retardant? The way it exerts its effects is by effecting neuro developmental processes. I mean in my throat, mouth, nose, chest. The fumes will automatically be absorbed into the bloodstream once they get to the lungs or stomach. Therefore, it may be difficult to get a dark color for your project. For these, please consult a doctor (virtually or in person). Also, the fumes may alter the nervous system and lead to brain damage. Doctors typically provide answers within 24 hours. If youre in a major city or any urban environment for that matter, youre at risk from a higher level of exposure. Educational text answers on HealthTap are not intended for individual diagnosis, treatment or prescription. With that in mind, here are four dangers of exposure to polyurethane fumes. The 3rd one takes the longest to dry, at the most about 2-3 days. Exposure can occur due to a number of means, including inhalation of lead from contaminated air, water, food, or direct exposure. International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health 85(3): 295-303. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21681482/ [Accessed October 2021], Cordier S, et al. adapted, stored and/or distributed in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Healthdirect Because its used in fuel, exposure can be high in periods of heavy traffic. You may not see instant adverse effects, and it is good to stay safe. Also, you can get wood stain poisoning if you inhale solvents in the formula or chemical vapors or if you spray your eye. While painting, and as the paint is drying, some people may experience symptoms such as headaches, eye watering, dizziness and breathing problems. Tea is another common option for improvising food-safe wood stains. Although most cleaning products are safe, there have been reports of some household chemicals causing wheezing in early childhood. You fit into the category of threatened miscarriage. Don't have a pilot light going near where you are staining, and avoid smoking while nearby. In our modern everyday life we come into contact with many different chemicals through the products we use, the food we eat, and the air we breathe. If you can go elsewhere, I would. However, Food Standards Australia New Zealand says BPA used in food packaging poses no health risks to people of any age, including unborn children and infants. But it darkens the lumber and gives it a lovely look. Need further advice or guidance from our maternal child health nurses? Can you be around polyurethane while pregnant? Also, wait for the finish to dry well before getting or staying in the room. Babies often rub their eyes when they are tired. I leaned against the wall of a house and noticed that it was a bit damp. 1997-2023 BabyCenter, LLC, a Ziff Davis company. Since I found out I was pregnant we have been remodeling the entire house pretty much. Need to talk? 2012. You should also wear a mask and work in a well-ventilated area. Joining MDF Boards In 5 Easy Steps, How to Use Mineral Spirit On Wood- 5 Ways to Safely Use Mineral Spirit. It's only long term exposure to that kind of stuff that may cause some worry. Short-term side effects from inhaling VOCs can include: irritation of the eyes, nose, or throat headache feeling dizzy or light-headed nausea trouble breathing Exposure to high concentrations. What to Expect supports Group Black and its mission to increase greater diversity in media voices and media ownership. You're fine and so is baby. Go through the safety information on the stain carefully. There are also PBDEs in the environment. Similarly, you need your hands to apply the stain, and you cannot cover your ears from the fumes. When we redid our floors, the poly killed all the plants in our house!!! Petroleum-derived solvents are damaging, including the extraction of petroleum, shipping, and manufacturing into chemicals and solvents, requiring a large amount of energy. Elizabeth Millard is a freelance journalist specializing in health and wellness. It only took 10 minutes to stain the trim but I feel so guilty and worried. When left uncured, polyurethane can cause asthma and other breathing problems. You can expect your digestive system to suffer from toxic fumes after inhaling them, especially when using the mouth. Getting the Best Out of Your Ash Furniture 2023. These solvents are commonly used in dry cleaning, as glue solvents, paint thinners and they have many other uses. They cause lung irritation or lung damage and are sensitising chemicals, meaning that after sufficient exposure, one can become highly sensitive in an allergic way, reacting to even very small doses of the chemicals (5, 10). He founded this website to help other woodworkers, whether hobbyists or professionals by sharing his knowledge and experiencie after a decade of woodworking. Theyve also been used as coolants, adhesives in addition to many more applications. Well, they increase macrosomia incidences and birth weight. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, exposure to lead paint increases the likelihood of lead poisoning and mental retardation. This scenario comes about when you ingest or swallow wood stains. Maternal occupational exposure to organic solvents during early pregnancy and risks of neural tube defects and orofacial clefts. They aid in adherence, longevity, and delivering a perfect finish. Here's the deal: As a mom-to-be, you're bound to hear something that suggests that pretty much everything you might eat/drink/do should be off-limits to you.