Is Mosquito Repellent Safe for Pregnant Women? Risks & Safety Tips

If mosquitoes are causing trouble during your pregnancy, you’ll be glad to know you can get rid of them effectively and safely. Mosquito repellents are generally safe to use during pregnancy and can help prevent mosquito-borne illnesses from spreading, which is especially important for the health of both you and your baby. It’s crucial to choose repellents that are approved for use during pregnancy. But is mosquito repellent safe for pregnant women? Choosing the right one ensures protection without harmful chemicals, keeping both you and your baby safe. Additionally, you can take other preventive measures, which we will discuss in this article. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any repellent. By taking these steps, you can protect yourself and your baby from potential risks while enjoying a more comfortable pregnancy.

How Dangerous Are Mosquito Bites During Pregnancy?

Mosquito bites may cause harm to mothers and their babies by spreading diseases like dengue, zika, and chikungunya (1). Birth defects like microcephaly, where the baby’s head becomes smaller than the expected size, are typical results when these mosquito-borne illnesses spread and develop (2).

What Are Mosquito Repellents?

Mosquito repellents are sprays that are known to ward off mosquitos. There are two types of mosquito repellent sprays safe for pregnant women – DEET and picaridin. Lemon eucalyptus mosquito spray is considered safe during pregnancy (3). However, you can always consult your doctor to confirm.

When selecting a mosquito spray safe for pregnancy, it’s important to choose options with approved ingredients that provide protection without harmful chemicals.

Is Using Mosquito Repellent During Pregnancy Safe?

Yes, using a mosquito spray is safe during pregnancy. Any sort of spray that has DEET or picaridin in it is considered safe for use as a mosquito repellent (4). Clinical trials have demonstrated that there are no adverse neurological, physiological, or gastrointestinal side effects of using mosquito sprays during pregnancy, even for one year after the birth of infants. Use registered mosquito repellents as a rule of thumb, and use lower dosage DEET sprays so they are not extremely potent.

Tips to Use Mosquito Repellents During Pregnancy

Here are some old-school (but practical) tips for using a pregnancy safe mosquito repellent (5):

• While travelling outdoors, carry anti-malaria drugs and insect repellent with DEET and picaridin and spray it on your skin for an added layer of protection.
• You don’t have to spray the repellent on your skin if you’re already wearing clothes. Just spray it on your clothes and don’t miss any spots.
• Apply mosquito repellents whenever you sweat or after exercising.
• Make sure to spray the repellent all over your skin and do not leave any empty spots on your body since those critters can bite.
• Think about the percentage of DEET formulation the repellent has. The concentration of DEET is directly proportional to how long you stay protected against mosquito attacks. 10% DEET-based sprays last for 2 hours, while 20% DEET sprays last 4 hours.
• Stay indoors as much as possible and in air-conditioned rooms.
• Avoid travelling to places that have a mosquito-disease-based outbreak. Major metropolitan areas are red flags for Zika and dengue outbreaks in different parts of America and Asia.
• Stay at resorts with well-established mosquito control programs to minimise exposure.
• Use a bed net when sleeping to protect yourself (and your baby). Insecticide-treated bed nets are a premium choice and are highly recommended.

FAQs

1. Can I use natural mosquito repellents like essential oils during pregnancy?

While natural repellents like citronella, eucalyptus, or lavender oils may seem safer, not all essential oils are considered safe during pregnancy. Some oils can cause skin irritation or trigger allergic reactions. Always consult your doctor before using essential oil-based repellents, and opt for pregnancy-approved options like oil of lemon eucalyptus if recommended.

2. Is it safe to use mosquito repellent sprays indoors while pregnant?

Using mosquito repellent sprays indoors can be safe during pregnancy, but proper ventilation is key. Avoid inhaling the spray directly and ensure the room is well-aerated after application. Consider alternatives like plug-in repellents or mosquito nets for indoor use, as they may pose fewer risks.

At the end of the day, you have to play it safe to keep your baby and yourself protected. Keep spraying, stay indoors and take caution and you won’t have to worry too much about it.

References/Resources:

1. Texas Children’s Hospital – Fight the bite: Advice for preventing mosquito bites in pregnant women and children

2. WHO – Zika Virus

3. Indiana University Bloomington – Insect Precautions — Permethrin, Deet, and Picaridin

4. Nemours Kids Health – Using Bug Killers and Repellents During Pregnancy

5. UKTIS: UK Health Security Agency – Use of insect repellents in pregnancy

Also Read:

Chickenpox in Pregnancy
Malaria During Pregnancy
Torch Infection when Pregnant
Viral Infections during Pregnancy