If you work in a setting where you may be exposed to hazardous materials, biological agents, or equipment during pregnancy or throughout your lactation period, please refer to the UCSF Occupational Health & Safety Program resource, Education for Pregnant Workers/Trainees in the Research Laboratory Setting (2024).
UCSF Occupational Health Services and the Public Health Office strongly recommend individualized assessments rather than general guidance. This includes reviewing your specific work environment and discussing any potential risks with your OB provider.
For support, next steps, or to request an individualized assessment, please visit the Occupational Health Services page or contact the Public Health Office at PublicHealthOffice@ucsf.edu.
Additional Resources:
- The LactMed® database contains information on drugs and other chemicals to which breast/chestfeeding people may be exposed. Learn more by visiting the Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®)
- The UCSF Program of Reproductive Health and the Environment's Work Matters resource provides a step-by-step guide to understanding chemical exposures, their health effects, and employees rights to help prevent harmful exposures during pregnancy. Learn more by visiting the Work Matters site.
Workplace safety guidance for pregnancy and lactation is available here.