Always be aware that while traveling to areas where mosquitoes are present, or in a mosquito area presently to stay protected. Disease transmission is possible and could be dangerous for your baby.
Mosquitoes are one of the most annoying pests for people to deal with, especially during warm months. If you’re pregnant, mosquitoes can be especially dangerous because they carry diseases and viruses that can harm you and your baby. Fears about mosquito repellent and pregnancy have grown with the rise of the Zika virus in recent years. However, many natural plant oil-based repellents are considered safe during pregnancy. so you don’t need to worry if you want to keep yourself safe from these biting bugs!
Table of Contents
- Simple mosquito repellents are safe to use.
- Insect repellents containing DEET are safe to use.
- Repellents containing picaridin or IR3535 should also be safe for you and your baby.
- Citronella-based repellents are safe to use.
- Mosquito repellent is important in keeping yourself and your baby safe from diseases carried by mosquitoes.
- Natural plant oil-based repellents are generally considered safe during pregnancy.
- Conclusion
Simple mosquito repellents are safe to use.
You can certainly use mosquito repellent during your pregnancy. Though you may feel uncomfortable about using a chemical on yourself and your baby, there are many things to keep in mind to make sure that mosquitos don’t get you or your child.
First, make sure that the product is made for pregnant women. If it says “pregnancy safe” or is labeled “natural,” then it should be fine to use (though we still recommend double-checking with your doctor). You can also check out this guide from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on what types of bug repellents are safe during pregnancy if you have any further questions.
Next up: how do I apply my mosquito repellent? The CDC recommends applying it 20–30 minutes before going outside so that the chemicals will have time to fully absorb into your skin before being exposed to sunlight and higher temperatures this step is especially important if you live in an area known for having mosquitoes infected with Zika virus! Once outside, reapply as directed by the directions on the bottle or cream tube every two hours when outdoors in areas where mosquitos are present (or after sweating heavily or getting wet).
Insect repellents containing DEET are safe to use.
DEET is the most effective mosquito repellent available, but it’s safe to use during pregnancy when used in moderation. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting the use of DEET-based products on children under 2 months old, however, because their skin is more permeable than that of adults.
As with any other product, you should avoid applying DEET-containing insect repellents directly to open wounds and cuticles or near mucous membranes (the inside of your nose and mouth), as this can increase absorption into your body.
Repellents containing picaridin or IR3535 should also be safe for you and your baby.
You should also be able to use repellents containing picaridin or IR3535 without worry. Picaridin is a synthetic chemical that is an effective insect repellent, but it hasn’t been tested in pregnant or breastfeeding women yet. The same goes for IR3535, although there’s no reason to suspect otherwise given its safety record and the fact that it’s also used as an active ingredient in sunscreen products.
When you’re pregnant, insect repellents that are recommended for children are normally the best because they contain less harmful chemicals. If it has a high DEET, the protection can be longer but choose the child form while you’re pregnant.
Always remember:
- Remember to always read the directions of anything for insect repellent you use.
- Don’t spray anything on irritated skin areas like cuts, abrasions, or any other kind of wound.
- For your face, spray your palm, or fingers and rub your face with care keeping the chemicals from your eyes. Possible toxic poisoning may happen if you spray it directly on your face.
- Use just enough repellent, and not too much. No matter how much you use, you will have the same amount of insect protection.
- Wash thoroughly after using any insect repellent so that it doesn’t continue to penetrate your skin beyond its uses.
- If your skin shows signs of irritation, wash that area with soap and don’t use that product again. You may have an allergy to it.
Citronella-based repellents are safe to use.
Citronella-based repellents are considered safe to use during pregnancy. Citronella is an essential oil derived from plants, most commonly lemongrass. Citronella-based repellents have been shown to be effective against mosquitoes and ticks, and are generally considered safe for pregnant women to use. If you’re having trouble finding natural plant oil-based repellents, try asking your local pharmacy about what products they carry or researching online for local retailers that sell them.
Keep in mind that many commercially available mosquito control products contain DEET or other chemicals that could be harmful if used during pregnancy. In addition to avoiding these types of products altogether, it’s best to check the label before buying any other type of product as well since there may be ingredients not listed on the container itself.
Mosquito repellent is important in keeping yourself and your baby safe from diseases carried by mosquitoes.
Mosquito repellent is important in keeping yourself and your baby safe from diseases carried by mosquitoes. Mosquitoes carry diseases like Zika and West Nile virus, which can cause serious complications for pregnant women and their babies.
DEET is the most effective mosquito-repellent ingredient, but it’s also the most likely to be used during pregnancy. DEET has been shown to be safe at up to 30% concentration (30% DEET), provided that you’re not applying it directly to your skin or inhaling fumes from its application.
Natural plant oil-based repellents are generally considered safe during pregnancy.
Natural plant oil-based repellents are generally considered safe during pregnancy.
However, some plant oils may be toxic and should be avoided during pregnancy. Some essential oils such as cedarwood and citronella are toxic for cats (and so you should avoid using them around your cat), while others like lemon eucalyptus oil can cause skin irritation or allergies in some people. If you use a repellent containing any of these ingredients, make sure to read the label carefully and check with your healthcare provider before using it on yourself or others.
Conclusion
DEET, Picaridin, or IR3535 have been considered safe if you’re still carrying your bundle of joy. You’re protected from mosquitoes very well. Essential oils like lemon, eucalyptus, and citronella help keep mosquitoes away. The effect of these ingredients doesn’t last long, but it’s very effective. Use products like Permethrin on clothing, shoes, or mosquito nets, but never on the skin.
