>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