Toxic Shock: BPA Confusion Causes Concern

Bisphenol-A (BPA), a chemical used to harden plastics, has been a topic of concern for many in the iVillage community, especially as conflicting reports about its safety have come to light in recent weeks. While an FDA report gave plastics containing BPA the all-clear, the safety of using the chemical has been called "inconclusive" by further research from the National Toxicology Program. BPA can be found in some baby bottles, canned food liners and other plastics. In our Playgroups and Expecting Clubs, moms have been sharing their worries as well as offering tips for finding BPA-free products. iVillagers have been also discussing this topic in our Hot Topics in Health, Breast vs. Bottle Debate and several other message boards. Some feel that plastics and chemicals are so prevalent there's virtually no way to avoid a possible issue, while others feel that the FDA is no longer a trustworthy resource:

"What causes concern for me is what I read about BPA possibly disturbing the endocrine system. I've been doing a lot of research on hormone imbalance and everything I have read talks about plastics and BPA and their adverse effect on the endocrine system. I know it is virtually impossible to eliminate these toxins but at least exposure can be reduced." -- carey239

"As to the issue of BPA's being considered 'safe', I agree that I'm not quite sure I would trust the FDA. That being said, we still use a lot of plastic in our household. We're living with my parents right now and my mother is the queen of plastic containers so I don't think there's any way we could completely avoid it at this point. I have bought BPA-free cups and such for [my son] but I'm sure he comes it contact with it from other sources." -- heavenly1127

"My goodness! How did we ever survive to have kids of our own what with all this poison in our homes? I have not changed bottles nor do I care to. I think people have a tendency to overreact about things because it has to do with our families." -- mckennagsmom

"It makes me so angry to think about it, just one more thing the FDA has screwed up to the detriment of our children." -- emilymara

"Just my very humble opinion but when I consider the source (FDA), that doesn't make me feel any better about me or my family consuming it." -- mygirlslilahandeva

"My son is three now and I really didn't know much about BPA when he was an infant. If and when we do it all again, I'll definitely be seeking out BPA free bottles." -- cl-kellie0901

Are you concerned about BPA in plastics or other possible chemical contaminants? How are you changing your habits or purchases based on this information? Tell me what you think about BPA, the FDA and the safety of the products we're buying.