>A mother is going back to work part time as a picture restorer. This involves >using organic solvents such as xylene, acetone, IMF and Propanol. She is >concerned about whether they could be absorbed through her skin, (presumably >inhaled also), and pass to her child in her milk. The child is 2years 9 >months, and feeds quite frequently. I am sure someone will confirm that these solvents will indeed be absorbed and pass into breastmilk. Two things come to my mind: (1) what will the effect be on the mother's lifespan, if she's not protected from skin absorption and inhalation? and (2) if she's waited 2 3/4 years to start this work, couldn't she wait a little longer? If not, my vote might be to wean. The effect on the child could be profound. Why isn't the mother protected? Arly Helm [log in to unmask] MS, Nutrition & Food Science, CLE, IBCLC