What to Know About Mercury While Pregnant or Breastfeeding

What is mercury and how are people exposed to it?

Mercury is a naturally occurring element that can exist in different forms, including elemental mercury, inorganic mercury, and organic mercury. People can be exposed to mercury through the air, water, or food. The main sources of mercury exposure for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers are eating fish and shellfish that contain methylmercury, a type of organic mercury.

How does mercury affect the fetus and infant?

Mercury can cross the placenta and enter the fetus. It can also pass from a breastfeeding mother to her infant through breast milk. Mercury exposure can affect the development of the nervous system, which can lead to problems with cognition, language, and motor skills. It can also cause other health problems, such as kidney damage, hearing loss, and blindness.

How can pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers reduce their exposure to mercury?

The best way to reduce your exposure to mercury is to avoid eating fish and shellfish that contain high levels of methylmercury. These include:

* Swordfish

* Shark

* King mackerel

* Tilefish

* Albacore tuna

* Bluefin tuna

* Marlin

You should also limit your intake of other fish and shellfish to two to three servings per week. Canned light tuna is a good choice, as it is usually low in methylmercury.

What should pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers do if they are concerned about mercury exposure?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding and are concerned about mercury exposure, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if you have been exposed to mercury and recommend ways to reduce your exposure.