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While it would be nice to have a full service gas station readily available to every pregnant woman, it is probably not likely and should not cause any real concern either. There have been some links between methanol, which is found in gasoline, and birth defects, but these were based on long-term exposure. A trip to the gas station to fill up a car is unlikely to put either the pregnant mother or her baby at any real risk.
However, when pumping gas, the following are suggested guidelines for ensuring minimal risk to either the mother or her fetus: choose an area that is well ventilated, if possible step away from the pump while the pump is on in order to avoid unnecessary fumes, and wash your hands to make sure no gasoline residue remains.
If you think you have been overexposed to toxic methanol fumes, it is best to contact your prenatal care doctor and seek medical attention immediately.
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