Can You Use Mosquito Repellent While Pregnant?
During pregnancy, mosquitoes can carry a variety of diseases. These include malaria, West Nile virus, and Lyme disease. Insect repellents can help keep you and your baby safe from these harmful bugs.
Insect repellents are available in a variety of forms, including lotions, sprays, and wipes. Some are effective, while others are not. It’s important to choose a repellent that has been tested for safety during pregnancy.
DEET is a chemical compound that has been used as an insect repellent for decades. It’s effective at keeping bugs away from your body, but it can also be irritating to your skin. It can cause an allergic reaction if you have a sensitivity to it. If you’re pregnant, you’ll want to find a repellent with a low concentration of DEET.
You’ll want to use a sunscreen first before applying any insect repellent. If you are going to be outdoors, make sure to apply a sunscreen with a high SPF. You may need to reapply the sunscreen frequently.
Many doctors and gynecologists recommend using DEET as an insect repellent during pregnancy. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registers DEET as an active ingredient in most products. The EPA has found that DEET is safe for pregnant women to use.
Other safe alternatives to DEET are picaridin and 2-undecanone. These are EPA-registered ingredients that are similar to DEET. However, there has not been enough research to determine their effects on an unborn baby.