Reproductive Health

The reproductive health program supports faculty, staff, and students who are contemplating having children, currently pregnant, or nursing. Certain chemical, biological, radiological, and physical hazards in laboratory and research environments can affect both male and female reproductive health. Cornell University is committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace by implementing safety standards and offering guidance on reproductive hazards. If you would like assistance from EHS, please complete the Reproductive Health Questionnaire.

Why Reproductive Health Matters

It is important for faculty, staff, and students to recognize potential workplace hazards that could lead to reproductive or developmental harm. Understanding risks early—prior to and during pregnancy—helps individuals make informed decisions and reduce exposures.

Reproductive hazards include chemical, biological, radiological, and physical agents. These hazards can affect fertility, reproductive organs, hormone balance, pregnancy outcomes, and fetal development. Examples of potential reproductive health impacts include fertility reduction, ovulatory disorders, fetal toxicity, developmental abnormalities, or genetic damage to sperm that may contribute to miscarriages or birth defects.

Because evaluating these hazards can be complex, Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) can assist in identifying exposures and recommending strategies to reduce risk.

The Reproductive Health Questionnaire helps identify relevant tasks, exposures, and concerns. After review, EHS will follow up to discuss findings, answer questions, and provide tailored recommendations.

Chemical Exposure

There are four main routes of chemical exposure in laboratory settings:

• Inhalation: Breathing vapors, gases, mists, or particulate contaminants.
• Absorption: Chemical contact with skin or eyes, particularly with cuts or irritated tissue.
• Ingestion: Consuming chemicals directly or indirectly (e.g., via contaminated hands, food, or drink).
• Injection: Accidental puncture or cuts from sharp contaminated objects (needles, glass, blades, splinters).
• More information can be found in the EHS Laboratory Safety Manual and the Hazard Communication webpage.

Biological Exposure

Biological exposure routes are similar to chemical exposures. Researchers should follow all biosafety procedures, including personal protective equipment (PPE) and proper handling techniques, to minimize risk.

• Personnel working with bloodborne pathogens must follow universal precautions for both known and unknown samples.
• When handling animals, take precautions to prevent zoonotic infections. Some animals carry agents that may pose reproductive risks. Follow guidance in the Animal Biosafety Procedures (ABPs).
• Review Biological Agent Reference Sheets (BARS) for information on health risks, PPE, and safe handling conditions for specific biological agents.
• Additional biosafety resources are available in the EHS Biological Safety Manuals.

Radiological Exposure

Ionizing radiation cannot be sensed by the body, but absorption of radiation energy can cause cellular and tissue changes. Most beta-emitting isotopes, including P-32, pose minimal external fetal dose due to shielding by maternal tissue. Reproductive or fetal exposure primarily occurs through:

• Internal contamination (ingestion, inhalation, wound uptake)
• External exposure to photon (gamma or x-ray) or neutron sources
• For additional information, consult the Radiation Safety Manual.

Physical Exposure

Physical hazards can also affect reproductive health and should be evaluated as part of workplace safety planning.

• Lifting, bending, standing, or sitting for long periods
• Exposure to loud noise
• Vibration or mechanical shock
• Extremes of heat or cold
• Working in confined spaces
• Additional information is available on the Occupational Health webpage.

Helpful Tips

• Eliminate or substitute hazardous materials whenever feasible.
• Review Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) before using new chemicals.
• Use engineering controls (e.g., fume hoods, biosafety cabinets) when handling hazardous materials.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as specified in Section 8 of the SDS.
• Never eat or drink in laboratories or areas where hazards may be present.
• Wash hands with soap and water after handling hazardous materials.
• Discuss any personal health concerns with your healthcare provider.
• Submit a Reproductive Health Questionnaire for EHS review if you have concerns about workplace exposures.