What other metals pose a risk in pregnancy?

- arsenic may be harmful to pregnancy.
- it enters the environment through natural sources (weathering of rock and forest fires) and man-made sources (mining and electronics manufacturing)

- although arsenic is a well-known poison, the small amounts normally found in the environment are unlikely to harm an unborn baby
- certain women may be exposed to higher levels of arsenic that may pose an increased risk of pregnancy complications, including miscarriage and birth defects
- long-term exposure in children may result in lowered IQ
- women who may be exposed to higher levels of arsenic include those who:

    * Work or live near metal smelters
    * Live in agricultural areas where arsenic fertilizers (now banned in the United States) were used on crops
    * Live near hazardous waste sites or incinerators
    * Drink well water containing high levels of arsenic (this can occur in the places described above and in other areas, including parts of New England and the Midwest, that have naturally high levels of arsenic in rock)
- women who live in areas that may have high arsenic levels can help protect themselves and their children from arsenic exposure by:

    * Limiting contact with soil
    * Getting well water tested for arsenic to determine whether it is safe to drink or drinking bottled water

- community water suppliers already test for arsenic
- until 2003, arsenic was included as part of a preservative in pressure-treated lumber that was used to build decks and outdoor play sets
- the EPA recommends applying a penetrating stain or sealant to these structures once every year or two to reduce exposure to arsenic
- anyone who works with arsenic (eg. in semiconductor manufacturing or metal smelting) should avoid bringing the metal home on clothing and shoes