Pregnancy Linked to Birth Defects

Summer is coming which means lots of people are gearing up for hours of lounging and frockling in yards and parks. Lush, verdant swaths of monotone green grass become outdoor carpet playgrounds for adults and children alike. Fields are abundant with fresh summer produce that are grown in neatly groomed, weed-free fields. These dramatic landscapes might be appealing visually, but what they're doing to our bodies isn't nice.

These bug and weed-free environments are created by the application of toxic pesticides and other agricultural chemicals. However, their reach and impact is well beyond the fields and gardens to which they're applied. Pesticides are already linked to a host of health problems including respiratory ailments and neurological disorders. Now, a study by Dr. Paul Winchester, published in the medical journal Acta Pediatrica, shows a link between pesticide exposure and birth defects.

Specifically, women who conceive between April and July are at greater risk for having a baby with birth defects becaues of exposure to pesticides and other agricultural chemicals. Winchester examined rates of birth defects in the US between 1996 and 2002 and found the highest numbers in those summer months. At the same time, government water-quality assessments found elevated levels of pesticides and other chemicals in surface-groundwater during these months. Birth defects linked to pesticide exposure include spina bifida, cleft pallet and lip, Down Syndrome, club foot and urogenital abnormalities.



This results of this study are frightening and bring us more confirmation of the dangers of pesticides and "that the capacity that pesticides have to alter our lives has been grossly underestimated."

So, what can you do. Dr. Winchester genuinely suggests that women trying to conceive should consider doing this in December, a month associated with the lowest birth defect and highest pregnancy success rates. Additionally, learn more about pesticides and take action with the Pesticide Action Network of North America.

(photo: pixnpics, flickr Creative Commons)