Reproductive toxins are often mistakenly considered an issue only for pregnant women. Broadly defined, however, reproductive toxins are materials that can interfere with reproductive functions or can cause damage to an exposed adult's ova, sperm, embryo, fetus or child.
Teratogens affect the developing embryo or fetus via exposures in the uterus.
There are few proven human teratogens. The vast majority of chemicals have not been conclusively studied for teratogenicity. However, pregnancy is often not confirmed until well into the first trimester. For this reason employees should not wait to assess any potential risk related to their jobs until pregnancy is confirmed. Employees should be knowledgeable about the toxicological properties of materials that are being used in the laboratory.