QuestionI'm wondering if you could provide me with some advice regarding a possible exposure to toxins during pregnancy. When I was 5 weeks and 6 days pregnant, my our new leather couch was delivered to our flat. The flat is very small. The lounge room is downstairs and the bedroom is upstairs. I was there when the couch was delivered to the downstairs area and it was wrapped in plastic and paper. The couch was made in China I think and had recently arrived in Australia. The couch smelled very strongly of toxins, so I did my best to hold my breath while it was delivered and I left the flat shortly after it was delivered. My boyfriend subsequently went home and unwrapped the couch and then told me that most of the smell was on the plastic and the couch itself didn't smell much. So, I went home, but to be on the safe side, I stayed upstairs with the bedroom door shut. Unfortunately, I couldn't leave the bedroom window open for ventilation because the people in the coffee shop three floors below were refurbishing and painting that very night, and I was afraid the fumes would come into my bedroom! The window downstairs where the couch was was open.
In the morning I felt fine when I woke up and I couldn't smell the couch toxins in the bedroom. However, after getting out of bed, I started coughing. I had a dry cough that was activated if I breathed deeply or exerted myself. When I went downstairs, I realised that the couch was emitting a strong toxic odor. I am very worried that perhaps the toxins offgassing from the couch came upstairs and under the door while I was sleeping and exposed the fetus to harm. My boyfriend didn't seem to suffer any symptoms and thinks I'm being parnoid. Another possible cause of my cough is that I quit smoking about two weeks ago. I understand that quitting smoking can bring on a cough. However, I'm worried because the cough only started after I slept in the flat with the couch and I don't have any other flu-like symptoms. I have since done my best to avoid the flat, but I'm still very worried. I still have the cough now, two days later.
I would be very grateful for your opinion on whether it's likely that I was exposed to toxic substances and the likelihood the exposure caused any harm.
AnswerHi Nicole :)
I really dont think you have much to be concerned about, considering that your exposure was short term. However, it is not uncommon for exsmokers to have a irritating cough following the absense of smoking.
I would think that if there were anything toxic, that was of concern pertaining to the couch, that there would be notices upon delivery, whether verbal, or written. If there was a toxic substance, that would be harmful to you, or your fetus, it would have been apparent, even on the packaging. If you were not warned, and did have complications with your pregnancy, due to exposure then there is severe legal implications with the manufacterer. So I really do think, you would have been informed one way or another.
However, the paint fumes I would have more concern about. Even though the actual risk of the fumes effecting your pregnancy are low, I think they are of more concern, then the couch.
Its usually reccomended when painting, that pregnant ladies leave for 2-3 days until the fumes have settled. Again, this also depends on what base paint was used.
If you do have concern, I would bring it up to your practioner, however just know that the actual risk of this harming your pregnancy, is slim.
I hope this has answered your question, and if you have any more concerns, please dont hesitate to write back.
Thanks for writing, and Happy holidays :)
-Kristy
