 |
| Photo from Flickr: Joshua Smith |
Premature infants in neonatal care are exposed to very high levels of phlalates, plastic softeners that mimic hormones and are known endocrine disruptors. While there is no evidence of long term damage, studies haven't been performed yet to track any changes. Does a lack of testing mean it is safe?
Unborn & young children are particularly susceptible to various toxic substances because their little bodies do not have the ability to flush toxins like adults. http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=104191628 France, in 2012, set up a ban for certain harmful phlalates in neonatal & pediatric medical equipment. http://www.edc-free-europe.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/HCWH-Factsheet-on-Hazardous-chemicals-in-medical-devices-Phthalates.pdf
Now, consider this:
Kangaroo care ( or direct skin to skin with mom as much as possible) has been proven in many cases, where the baby is breathing on its own, to be much more beneficial. http://www.neoforcegroup.org/downloads/Kangaroo_Guidelines.pdf
What we would love to see:
- More movement toward using more natural methods whenever possible. Move away from always resorting to equipment
- Spending on research to find truly non toxic substitutes for when using equipment will prove the best opportunity.
I'm not saying we should all just go live in the woods;
instead, I turn to one of my favorite words in this business:
balance!
I am a huge advocate for looking for ways to better integrate science and nature. Nature gave us many useful tools and humankind's science has also done the same. However, we have lost equilibrium and would benefit from seeking the place where these two disciplines can cooperate.
For every choice there are benefits and risks. We now need to account now for the risks of exposing children to dangerous chemicals. Incubators used as a "go to" may no longer be the best choice. (body heat is a great natural incubator) Many hospitals are getting on board with UNICEF's baby friendly (babyfriendlyusa.org) certification which is mainly centered around being supportive to breastfeeding. However, many hospitals that fall under this may be more supportive of using skin to skin care when appropriate.
What can I do?
- Support organizations that work with hospitals to create more natural birthing and neonatal environments.
- For expecting parents, thoroughly research hospitals and ask about the level of kangaroo care they support and what natural options they offer. A great way to start is to look for hospitals with the baby friendly certification
Val
At Eco Made Easy we want to bring you information and solutions. Contact us today so that we can tailor a plan for your family or office.
Contact us today for information on how we can give you eco-counseling that fits in your budget for a cleaner, healthier space!ecomadeasyVal@gmail.com.
