Is Grout for Tile Harmful to a Fetus?

Tile grout is made of sand, cement, gravel and water. These ingredients make a substance that is thick and easily applied to ceramic tile. Its effects on the fetus, however, vary by the way the tile grout is used.

Potential Problems

• The dust that comes from the grout could cause breathing trouble for the mother if she is exposed. Her lack of appropriate oxygen could affect the fetus if left untreated.

Unusual Use

• An unusual use concerns pregnant women craving nonfood items like tile grout. This is a condition called pica.

Pica Dangers

• Eating nonfood items like tile grout can inhibit the body's nutrients that it would normally get from food. The grout could also cause problems like perforations and blockages in the digestive system, further preventing the fetus's nutrition.

Considerations

• Other dangers in installing tile come from lifting too many tiles (too much weight) and exposing the pregnant woman to toxic fumes in grout fixers or finishers used after the tile is installed. Toxic products will be labeled with a caution for pregnant women.

Precautions

• Wear a facemask made to prevent intake of dust---find them at the store that sells the grout. Also, consult a doctor if you find yourself craving a bite of the grout.