Bisphenol A or BPA is considered an endocrine disruptor because it can mimic estrogen. New research suggests exposure to BPA during pregnancy may also have an impact on the thyroid gland.
BPA in Mothers: the CHAMACOS Study:
Scientists measured BPA levels in pregnant women living in Salinas, California. They then tested the mothers and their newborn babies for thyroid function to see if BPA disrupts thyroid hormones.
Higher BPA levels in the second half of pregnancy were associated with lower levels of thyroid hormone (T4) in the women. Male infants had lower TSH levels when their mother’s level of BPA was elevated late in pregnancy. A lower level of TSH, or thyroid stimulating hormone, is associated with higher levels of circulating thyroid hormone. Appropriate levels of thyroid hormone are critical for the normal development of babies in utero and as newborns.
Learning About BPA:
BPA is a plasticizer found in polycarbonate containers and the linings of cans, cash register receipts and water supply pipes. You can read more about what we have written regarding BPA here and here.
We have done several radio shows on the topic of endocrine disruptors. The most recent is Show 974: Toxin Toxout with Bruce Lourie and Rick Smith.
