How to Reduce your BPA Exposure During Pregnancy

BPA is an increasing problem in the United States, and many expecting mothers want to know how to reduce their BPA exposure during pregnancy. BPA is a hormonal chemical that was first created for usage in contraceptives, however, as it was deemed not very useful for that purpose, it was repurposed in the manufacturing of plastics. Today, almost every product that contains plastic also contains the BPA, with the exception of those specifically labeled to have excluded BPA in their manufacturing process.

BPA can cause hormonal imbalances in women and expose males to unnecessary female hormones as well. BPA has also been linked to miscarriage in some clinical studies. If you're not a big plastic user, you may still be exposed to BPA on a daily basis. You may not even know it, but all receipt papers are currently manufactured using a BPA coating.

In some studies, it has been known to be absorbed by the skin in a matter of seconds. So, every time you shop at a store and are handed a receipt, you are being exposed to BPA without your knowledge. BPA can cause early adolescent development, unnecessary exposure to female hormones in men, and reproductive issues.

To reduce your exposure to BPA while you're pregnant there a few things you can do:

Avoid microwaving food in any plastic containers.
Avoid eating warm foods from any plastic dishes or containers.
Avoid serving yourself hot beverages in plastic cups or tumblers.
When shopping, opt for having your receipts emailed to you. However, if you must touch a receipt, be sure to wash your hands after touching it within a few minutes.
Do not place receipts in your wallet, BPA can rub off on credit cards and debit cards it may come into contact with.
Whenever possible, opt for paper bags at your local grocery store.
Only buy baby bottles labeled with a clear declaration of the omission of BPA chemicals in the manufacturing process to reduce your child's exposure after they are born.

Natural ingredients and materials are your best friend. Whenever possible, try to use glass containers and dinnerware. Avoiding plastics will not only reduce your global footprint, but help you to reduce your unnecessary exposure to BPA chemicals.