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Can I Use Bug Killers and Repellents During Pregnancy?
We live in the South, where insects are a major problem. But now that I’m pregnant, I’m afraid to use any kind of bug killer or repellent. Are some OK?
– Rhonda
Pesticides are considered poisons and pregnant women should stay away from them as much as possible. High levels of exposure may cause miscarriage, premature delivery, and birth defects. There's no evidence that the usual occasional household use of insecticides does any damage to a baby, but it's still best to err on the side of caution. You can use safer methods of removal such as boric acid, which you should be able to find at your local hardware store.
As for insect repellents (which may contain DEET, or N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide), the risks aren't fully known. So far, studies have not proven that DEET poses a health hazard to unborn babies. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises pregnant women to use insect repellents, including those containing DEET, because they help to reduce exposure to mosquito bites that may carry potentially serious viruses.
Other, non-repellent precautions you can take against insect bites include:
- Avoid going outdoors when insects such as mosquitoes are most actively biting (usually dusk and dawn).
- Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors to reduce the amount of exposed skin that insects can bite.
- Make sure doors and windows remain closed or have tight-fitting screens with no holes where insects can enter the house.
For more information, check out these articles:
Birth Defects
Staying Healthy During Pregnancy
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