For thirty-two-year-old Laura Gómez, a mother balancing work, family, and the intense demands of early motherhood, the first sign of discomfort seemed minor—just a passing itch she attributed to a simple allergic reaction. Perhaps it was the new laundry detergent, a recent dietary change, or a different soap. She tried switching products, cut out peanuts and shellfish, and visited a dermatologist who prescribed creams and antihistamines. Nothing made a difference.