Mexico Surrogacy: Chemicals Surrogates Should Avoid? COSTA HEALTH Guide

Dear Prospective Surrogate Mothers,

Becoming a surrogate mother is a choice filled with love and responsibility. In the Mexico surrogacy journey, protecting your health and the baby's is one of the most important duties. Many common chemicals in daily life can potentially affect fetal development.

1. Household Cleaners and Air Fresheners

Many cleaning sprays, floor waxes, and toilet cleaners contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and ammonia. These substances can easily enter the body through the respiratory tract, possibly disrupting hormone balance or increasing preterm birth risk. COSTA HEALTH recommends: Choose products labeled “VOC-free,” “pregnancy-friendly,” or “natural ingredients.” Use them with windows open for ventilation, or have family members handle cleaning. Simple combinations like white vinegar + baking soda often solve most household cleaning needs.

2. Harmful Ingredients in Cosmetics and Skincare

Some cosmetics, sunscreens, and nail polishes contain phthalates, parabens, and triclosan. These chemicals may mimic estrogen and affect fetal reproductive system development. COSTA HEALTH recommends: Select EWG-certified or labeled “paraben-free, phthalate-free” pregnancy-specific skincare products. Makeup removers, pure plant essential oils, and mineral sunscreens are safer alternatives.

3. Plastic Products and Food Packaging

Heated plastic containers (especially #7 plastic) easily release bisphenol A (BPA) and plasticizers. Long-term exposure may impact fetal neurological and reproductive health. COSTA HEALTH suggests: Use glass, stainless steel, or ceramic containers for food and drinks. Avoid microwaving food in plastic cups, prioritize fresh ingredients, and eat less canned or takeout food with plastic packaging.

4. Pesticides and Gardening Chemicals

Household insect sprays, mosquito coils, and herbicides often contain pyrethroids and organophosphates, which may affect fetal brain development through skin or inhalation. During Mexico surrogacy, COSTA HEALTH strongly recommends: Avoid chemical pesticides as much as possible. Use electric mosquito swatters, window screens, and repellent plants (such as lavender or lemongrass) instead. If use is necessary, choose low-toxicity, pregnancy-safe sprays and stay away from the site for at least 2 hours.

5. Paints, Glues, and Renovation Materials

Newly renovated homes or furniture often release formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, and other harmful gases. These are linked to low birth weight and preterm birth risks. COSTA HEALTH reminds: During pregnancy, avoid contact with paints, glues, floor waxes, and similar renovation materials as much as possible. If the living environment was recently renovated, ventilate for 3-6 months before moving in, or choose a well-ventilated home.

6. Heavy Metals and Environmental Pollutants

Secondhand smoke, lead-containing cosmetics, and mercury in certain fish can affect the fetus through the bloodstream. COSTA HEALTH suggests: Stay away from smoking environments, choose low-mercury fish (such as salmon or sardines), and limit to no more than 2-3 servings per week. Eat foods rich in folic acid, iron, and calcium daily to help the body detoxify better.

Daily Protection Tips

- Read product labels and avoid words like “paraben,” “phthalate,” “fragrance.”

- Use more natural-material clothing and bedding.

- Keep indoor air circulating and use air purifiers.

- Attend regular check-ups and follow COSTA HEALTH doctors' personalized guidance.

If you have a warm heart and are willing to use your body to protect another family's dream, COSTA HEALTH sincerely welcomes you to join us. Becoming a surrogate mother not only helps others but also adds a profound and beautiful meaning to your own life. We are here, waiting to start this warm journey together with you.