Education on the effects of environmental chemicals has been slow to catch up with the research. ACOG has recommended that all pregnant women receive information on how to avoid many chemicals known to cause fetal harm. Numerous organizations are providing research and education for families to reduce their exposure to unhealthy toxins but mainstream paths of education have been slow to add this information to curriculum. Childbirth educators have a unique opportunity to educate pregnant and new families about the concerns and also provide safe, healthy alternatives for care of families. Donna Walls, RN, BSN, ICCE, IBCLC, became a Registered Nurse in 1972, and has worked with pregnant and new parents since 1974. She became a Certified Childbirth Educator in 1984, is currently serving as Director of Lactation on the Board for the International Childbirth Education Association, She became a Certified Lactation Consultant in 1987 and an Advanced Nurse Lactation consultant in 2012. She is a clinical Lactation Consultant, and continues as faculty for the Healthy Children Project. She also teaches many women’s health classes and workshops for both patients and professionals and became adjunct faculty at Sinclair Community College, teaching holistic and environmental care classes. She was the project leader for the successful Baby Friendly designation at Southview Hospital in 2008 and has worked to implement the Ohio 10 Steps to Successful Breastfeeding. She published her first book “Natural Families- Healthy Homes” in 2007, focusing on the connection between the health of the environment and personal health and published her second book “Growing Green Families” in 2016. Continuing Education Units: One (1) ICEA Contact Hour, One (1) R-CERP 

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