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Reproductive Toxin

Definition

A reproductive toxin is a substance or agent that can cause adverse effects on the reproductive system. The toxic effects may include alterations to the reproductive [sexual] organs and/or the endocrine system (which includes the thyroid and adrenal glands). These effects can occur in both men and women. OSHA defines reproductive toxins as "Chemicals which affect the reproductive capabilities including chromosomal damage (mutations) and effects on fetuses (teratogenesis)." Exposure to reproductive toxins may cause one to become infertile or to have difficulty conceiving a child. Reproductive toxins may affect the parent, developing child (even after birth), or both.

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Additional Info

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The American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine says: "Characteristics which distinguish reproductive toxicity from other toxic effects include: adverse effects in [the] exposed person may only become manifest in the other party. For example, an exposure to a reproductive toxicant in a male may produce an effect in the conceptus [fetus or child]; infertility may not be evident until children are desired and may therefore go unnoticed for long periods; and normal reproductive function is only expressed intermittently. Disturbances of the reproductive process from occupational reproductive hazards can produce a broad range of potential toxic effects. " In response to potential reproductive hazards and fetotoxins, the state of California (USA) passed a measure called the The Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986, which is better known by its ballot name, Proposition 65. This act attempts to regulate the use of potential fetotoxins and reproductive hazards. Further information can be found in the links below.

MSDS Relevance

MSDS's are required to disclose reproductive effects. Reproductive toxic effects are not always irreversible. It can be difficult to determine if workplace exposure to a material is the cause of infertility because fewer than 1,000 chemical agents (out of 50,000,000+ known chemicals) have been studied for the reproductive effects.

When working with materials that are potential reproductive toxins use standard (and common sense) precautions such as fume hoods, appropriate respirators and other personal protective equipment (PPE). Better yet, see if you can find a safer alternative to using that particular material!

Further Reading

• The University of Carlifornia at Davis has an excellent page on Reproductive Health issues in the University setting. Be sure to try the Safety Nets link.
• NIOSH has a great site on Reproductive Health
• The California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment's Prop 65 page and their currently listed chemicals in your choice of order/format.
• Prop 65 and Related Sites and Resources at CalProp65.com.
• Prop65 News.
• Preconception Brief: Occupational/Environmental Exposures from Matern Child Health J. 2006 September; 10(Suppl 1): 123-128.
• No longer available free on-line but this article "Fetal Protection Policies: A Method of Safeguarding Fetuses or a Way of Limiting Women in the Workplace?" appeared in J. Health Hosp. Law 1990Jul;23(7):193-207, 213, 224.
• Ask Dr Safety about Reproductive Toxins, a PowerPoint presentation at the American Chemical Society's Division of Chemical Health and Safety web site.

See also: carcinogen, cytotoxin, heavy metal, mutagen.

Additional definitions from Google and OneLook.

Disclaimer: The information contained herein is believed to be true and accurate, however ILPI makes no guarantees concerning the veracity of any statement. Use of any information on this page is at the reader's own risk. ILPI strongly encourages the reader to consult the appropriate local, state and federal agencies concerning the matters discussed herein.