Summary
Ethylene glycol monobutyl ether (EGBE) is used in hydraulic fluids, as a coupling agent for water-based coatings, in vinyl and acrylic paints, and as a solvent for varnishes, enamels, spray lacquers, dry cleaning compounds, textiles and cosmetics.
There are no published data regarding exposure to EGBE during human pregnancy, and animal data has not demonstrated teratogenicity in the absence of maternal toxicity.
As with all chemicals, unnecessary exposure to EGBE should be avoided during pregnancy. However, where occupational exposure is unavoidable then precautions should be taken to ensure that exposure is well within the recommended exposure limits and not associated with toxic symptoms.
Data following acute exposure are limited, however in the absence of severe maternal toxicity the risks of fetal toxicity appear to be no greater than those for the general population. When systemic toxicity occurs following exposure, it is important to treat the mother appropriately to reduce the risks of both maternal and fetal toxicity. Inadvertent exposure would not usually be regarded as medical grounds for termination of pregnancy or additional prenatal diagnostic tests.
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