Pregnant Women Should be Aware of THM Levels in Drinking Water

HEALTH--Pregnant Women Should be Aware of THM Levels in
Drinking Water

Pregnant women in Nova Scotia should be aware of Health Canada's recommendations for trihalomethanes (THMs) in drinking water, according to public health officials.

Several studies in the U.S. and Canada suggest that high THM levels in drinking water may be linked to stillbirths or miscarriages. While the studies don't prove that there is a definite connection, there are ways for women to reduce their THM intake if they are concerned.

"Most water supplies in Nova Scotia have acceptable THM levels, so we don't want to cause unnecessary concern for pregnant women, but we feel that this information is important," said Dr. Maureen Baikie, associate medical officer of health for the province. "We encourage women to drink extra water during their pregnancy, so we want to make sure that they are aware of any potential risks that may exist, and the most effective ways to reduce those risks."

While THMs can't be eliminated from drinking water, Health Canada suggests that the easiest way for women to reduce their exposure during pregnancy is to use a water pitcher with a carbon filter, a tap-mounted carbon filter, or bottled drinking water.

THMs are formed when chlorine reacts with organic matter in the water. Chlorine is used in treating drinking water to kill bacteria that can cause serious illnesses. While some municipal water supplies in Nova Scotia still have high levels of THMs, the Department of Environment and Labour has been working successfully with communities to help them reduce their levels.

"The number of municipal water supplies that have levels of THMs above the guidelines has been on a steady decline over the past few years," said Dave Briggins, manager of the Department of Environment and Labour's water and wastewater branch. "Upgrades and improvements are either under way or planned for every municipality."

There are 13 Nova Scotia municipalities that currently have THM levels that exceed Canadian drinking water quality guidelines. They are Baddeck, Coxheath/Westmount, Dingwall, East Hants Regional, Glace Bay, Hayden Lake, Liverpool, Louisbourg, Mahone Bay, Shelburne, Sydney River, Tatamagouche and Yarmouth. In the past 12 months, both Judique and Windsor have implemented new treatment systems that have brought their latest test results down to below the guideline level.

"It's important to note that while high THM levels may be a contributing factor in stillbirth risk, there are several other factors involved," said Dr. Baikie. "It's very difficult to determine the exact cause in each situation."
To get information on the quality of your drinking water, contact your municipality. Information on THMs in drinking water can be found on the Department of Environment and Labour Web site at www.gov.ns.ca/enla/water/thm.htm .