POSTPARTUM CHANGES IN MATERNAL BLOOD LEAD CONCENTRATIONS

Studies of lead concentrations in blood during pregnancy are of interest because of the possibility of adverse effects on the fetus. One report of a single case suggested that blood lead concentrations are raised during pregnancy. This is consistent with the hypothesis of a pregnancy induced mobilisation of lead from bone. Data presented herein, however, indicate that blood lead measures are appreciably lower at delivery than they are at six months post partum. Other factors including but not limited to transmission to the fetus, may be influencing lead concentrations during pregnancy.