To evaluate the possible embryotoxic effects of styrene, 67 female lamination workers occupationally exposed to styrene and 67 age-matched female industrial workers with no obvious chemical exposure were interviewed. The women, all under 40 a of age, did not differ significantly with respect to number of births, pregnancies, or spontaneous and induced abortions prior to the exposure period. During the styrene exposure the number of births was significantly lower among the exposed group, a result partly explained by a higher number of induced abortions. No differences were found in this material with regard to the number of spontaneous abortions.

Key terms chemical exposure; embryotoxic effect; lamination worker; obstetric history; obstetrics; occupational exposure; short communication; styrene; woman