HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Can Short Term Exposure To Paraformaldehyde Affect The Embryo?

default
Posted on Sun, 15 Apr 2012
Question: I accidently inhaled RV toilet chemical dust containing paraformaldehyde and I may be pregnant - I am concerned about the potential effects - could this effect the pregnancy or embryo?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (56 minutes later)
Hi

Thanks for the query

There are no studies showing harmful effects on the human embryo following short term exposure of the Paraformaldehyde. Well some studies have been conducted in animals to study the effect of the formaldehyde for a long duration but have failed to produce any significant side effects in the offspring.

So, no need to worry about any harmful effects on the embryo. In most of the studies, exposure caused temporary reversible decreases in lung function, but no long-term effects. Even the medical students and the tutors during their anatomy dissection are exposed to some amount of formaldehyde for a long duration, but no side effects on the fetus has been documented.

Hope I have answered your query, if you have any more doubts you are welcome.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
doctor
default
Follow up: Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (1 hour later)
Of course I now am concerned about the remaining ingredients in the cleanser - instead of asking about each individual one may I ask if brief chemical exposure (via inhalation) is cause for concern. Of course I will avoid all exposure in the future but am highly concerned about this one.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (11 hours later)
Hi

Welcome back

The RV chemical dust contains the following ingredients:
Active biocides
Odor controlling agents
Concentrating agents
Chelating reagent
Fragrances
Surface-active substances/emulsifiers

None of these agents are harmful to the embryo or growing fetus when exposed for a short duration. And, of all these agents, Paraformaldehyde is the most XXXXXXX one.

Well, it could have been harmful if there was any accidental consumption of this substance, as it would have got absorbed into the blood stream causing health problems.

Inhalation of these substances at the most can cause irritation of the lung tissue, but the chance of these agents getting absorbed into the blood stream via lungs is almost impossible in a brief exposure. So, do not worry, there will be no adverse effects on the embryo or fetus.


Wish you Good Health


Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Radhika
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty

Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 2540 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
Can Short Term Exposure To Paraformaldehyde Affect The Embryo?

Hi

Thanks for the query

There are no studies showing harmful effects on the human embryo following short term exposure of the Paraformaldehyde. Well some studies have been conducted in animals to study the effect of the formaldehyde for a long duration but have failed to produce any significant side effects in the offspring.

So, no need to worry about any harmful effects on the embryo. In most of the studies, exposure caused temporary reversible decreases in lung function, but no long-term effects. Even the medical students and the tutors during their anatomy dissection are exposed to some amount of formaldehyde for a long duration, but no side effects on the fetus has been documented.

Hope I have answered your query, if you have any more doubts you are welcome.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon