Boston, Aug 27 (PTI) Exposure to a common chemical found in yoga mats, baby products and upholstered furniture may reduce the chances of pregnancy through IVF, a Harvard study warns. The flame retardant PentaBDE, used in polyurethane foam, was replaced by organophosphate flame retardants (PFRs) as a safer alternative. PFRS are used in polyurethane foam in many products, including upholstered furniture, baby products, and gym mats. The women were enrolled in the Environment and Reproductive Health (EARTH) study, which looks at how environmental chemicals and lifestyle choices affect reproductive health. "Couples undergoing IVF and trying to improve their chances of success by reducing their exposure to environmental chemicals may want to opt for products that are flame- retardant free," researchers said.

Source: India Today August 27, 2017 09:22 UTC