Can Mold Affect My Pregnancy?
Q. Can Mold Affect My Pregnancy?
A. This is a question we get from clients who are either pregnant or hoping for good news soon. There are no conclusive studies that show mold has a direct impact on human pregnancy, but there have been studies done on rats to see the effect of mold toxins on their fertility.
In the study, scientists discovered that toxins from mold had a negative impact on fetal development. The findings ran the gamut from fewer rats getting pregnant, an increase in the number of stillborn fetuses, to a reduction in the average litter size.
However, we need to keep in mind that we cannot infer that the same will happen to humans just from this study. Clinical studies are set in a laboratory environment and cannot mimic mold exposure in the same way that we would be exposed to mold in our own home.
What we do know is that there is a population of people who are sensitive to mold and will get sick if exposed to it.
If this is the case, it can be logical to deduce that their illness will impact their unborn child over time. Thus, it would make sense to take the necessary steps to prevent mold exposure. We also know that the EPA states that all indoor mold should be cleaned, as it has “the potential to cause health problems.”
So, if your indoor air quality is poor, especially if it is due to mold, we recommend that you take the preventative measure in lowering that potential. Either way, it is better to be safe than sorry, especially during such an important time in your life. If you’re looking for a healthy indoor air solution, please contact Healthy Air USA at 770-205-1710. We offer air quality and mold testing services in Atlanta and can help with mold remediation if required.
References
CDC. “Mold”. https://www.cdc.gov/mold/faqs.htm. (Retrieved January 29, 2018)
EPA. “Mold and Health”. https://www.epa.gov/mold/mold-and-health. (Retrieved January 29, 2018)
Kung’u, Dr. Jackson. “Can Black Mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) Affect Pregnancy?” Mold & Bacteria Consulting Laboratories. https://www.moldbacteria.com/mold/can-stachybotrys-chartarum-black-mold-affect-pregnancy.html. (Retrieved January 29, 2018)