Expecting a baby? Or contemplating pregnancy? Then, this is for you. At Safe Home Happy Mom, we are all about safe living, and that involves your unborn child as well. Now is the time to start thinking about ways to keep your unborn child safe, chemical-free and reduce his/her exposure to toxins. According to the Environmental Working Group, "The human race is now polluted with hundreds of industrial chemicals – with little or no understanding of the consequences. Babies are born pre-polluted with as many as 300 industrial chemicals in their bodies when they enter the world."

Here are some facts you might want to know. EWG studies found 252 chemicals linked to cancer in 160 people tested (EWG 2008). Children face the greatest risks from exposures to carcinogens: Environmental Protection Agency studies show that infants up to age two are, on average, ten times more vulnerable to carcinogenic chemicals than adults, and for some cancer-causing agents are up to 65 times more vulnerable (EWG 2003).

From asthma to diabetes and multiple sclerosis, many diseases of the immune system have been on the rise in recent years. Under current law chemical manufacturers are not required to study the extent to which exposures to chemicals are playing a role in these changes, but EWG studies show there is certainly cause for concern. Our tests have found 241 chemicals that can affect the immune system in 160 people tested, including 130 chemicals in 10 newborn babies (EWG 2008, EWG 2005).

I am totally distraught that in a country of such high standards and advancement, we cannot hold companies accountable for using these chemicals in baby products. Even when industrial chemicals known to cause cancer, reproductive harm, and neuro-developmental problems have been found in people, including babies, the government is not required to take any action to protect human health.

So what can you do to protect you and your baby?

1. Go green – Stop using harsh chemicals or bleach for cleaning purposes, instead make your own, or purchase an organic cleaning product. Baking Soda and Vinegar are great options.
   
2. Go Organic – Eat more fruits, vegetables and drink more water
   
3. Body Care – Choose better products and don't just purchase them because they say organic, make sure the ingredients are actually plant based. Look up Cosmetic Database to help decipher chemicals on products you will be using
   
4. Avoid BPA – Pick your plastics carefully, avoid plastics that contain BPA, which is linked to cancer.
   
5. Filter Tap Water – Use reverse osmosis, which is what I currently do. Its cheaper, safer and reduces your exposure to impurities.
   
6. Stay Clean – Practice cleaning your hands every now and then. Wash properly with soap and dry properly. Apply safe moisturizing cream and stay healthy.
   
7. Avoid Nail Polish – The chemicals and fragrances could get to your unborn child
   
8. Avoid Alcohol – It could cause fetal alcohol syndrome
   
9. Do Not Smoke – To avoid low birth weight
   
10. Avoid VOCs – Don't use paints, wood finishes, glues, spot removers or pesticides