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Will Polyurethane Smell Cause Problems During Pregnancy?

Posted on Wed, 12 Feb 2014

Question: we are pregnant but went to a friend's house that was renovated months ago. unfortunately there is still smell of polyurethane when we were there. we were there for appr. 8 hours. what are the chances that could harm the pregnancy?

Answered by Dr. Timothy Raichle (50 minutes later)

Brief Answer: Hello, I would be happy to help... Detailed Answer: How far along are you in the pregnancy? How many weeks? Have you had any problems or complications so far? Is this your first pregnancy? Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Timothy Raichle (2 minutes later)

13 weeks and no complications to note as of yet. and its the first

Answered by Dr. Timothy Raichle (17 minutes later)

Brief Answer: Thank you for the followup... Detailed Answer: Here are the reasons why I think you have very little to worry about: 1. You were beyond the most critical period of development which is up to about 12 weeks. It is during that time that excess exposure can an effect 2. The renovation occurred so long ago, that the level of polyurethane in the air was probably extremely small 3. Most of the data (that I can find) has more to do with workplace exposure to chemicals (i.e. chronic daily exposure) If you were my patient, I would certainly do what I could to reassure you that there is likely going to be no detectable harm. I would also bring this up with your OB/GYN and make sure that they agree with what I have said as well. I hope that this helps and good luck!

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar