Do chemicals in plastics pose a risk to the fetus or infant?

- plastics are made from a number of chemicals, including phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA)
- phthalates make plastic soft and flexible
- they are used in toys, medical devices (such as tubing), shampoos, cosmetics and food packaging
- BPA makes plastics clear and strong, used in baby bottles, food containers (to line metal food cans) and water bottles

- recent research suggests that exposure to phthalates before birth may contribute to subtle defects in male genitals
- phthalates also may pose a risk after birth
- in 2006, the National Toxicology Program (NTP) concluded that one type of phthalate used in plastic medical tubing could pose a risk to the reproductive systems of baby boys
- many hospitals have removed such products from newborn nurseries

- in 2008, the NTP also expressed concern about the effects of BPA on the brain, behavior and prostate gland in fetuses, infants and children
- other studies suggest that high BPA levels may play a role in some miscarriages
In 2009, the United States banned the use of some phthalates from toys and child care articles, including any product children age 3 and younger use for sleeping, feeding, sucking or teething
- some manufacturers have discontinued use of BPA in baby bottles
- studies are continuing on possible health effects of these chemicals
- pregnant women can take these steps to limit their exposure:

    * Don’t use plastic containers with the number 7 or the letters PC (polycarbonate) in the triangle found on the bottom
    * Limit use of canned food
    * Don’t microwave food in plastic containers or put plastics in the dishwasher

Parents can limit their baby’s exposure by:

    * Breastfeeding their babies so they don’t have to use baby bottles
    * Using baby bottles made of glass, polypropylene or polyethylene
    * Giving their baby plastic toys made after February 2009, or labeled phthalate-free
    * Limiting use of baby lotions or powders that contain phthalates