Key points
- Lead can be stored in the bones of adults and can be released into the blood during pregnancy.
- Lead can pass from a parent to their unborn baby.
- The best way to prevent lead in the blood is preventing lead exposure.
Overview
Lead can be stored in the bones of adults who are exposed to lead over a long time. Lead may also be stored in the bones of adults who have had high levels of lead in their blood.
The lead stored in the bones of adults can be released into the blood during pregnancy.
This means that the level of lead in their blood can start to increase during pregnancy. If a person is exposed to lead during their pregnancy, their developing baby can also be exposed.
Lead in the blood during pregnancy
Lead in the blood during pregnancy can:
- Increase risk for miscarriage
- Cause the baby to be born too early or too small
- Hurt the baby's brain, kidneys, and nervous system
- Cause the child to have learning or behavior problems
If you are pregnant and think you may have been exposed to lead, talk to your healthcare provider. You can talk about getting a blood lead test. A blood test is the best and most readily available way to determine if you have been exposed to lead.
Based on your blood lead test result, your doctor may have recommendations. They may suggest finding and removing lead from your environment and eating a diet high in iron and calcium. You may have to schedule follow-up blood lead testing.
Resources
Are You Pregnant? – Printable PDFs in English and en Español
Guidelines for the Identification and Management of Lead Exposure in Pregnant and Lactating Women - Recommendations for health care providers and public health professionals
Breastfeeding and Environmental Exposures to Lead – guidance on protecting children