Can pesticides harm an unborn baby?

- there is little proof that exposure to pest-control products at levels commonly used at home poses a risk to an unborn baby
- all insecticides are to some extent poisonous
- some studies suggest that high levels of exposure to pesticides may contribute to miscarriage, preterm birth, low birthweight, birth defects and learning problems
- women who do agricultural work or live in agricultural areas may be more likely to be exposed to high levels of pesticides than other women
- all pregnant women should avoid pesticides whenever possible

- a pregnant woman can reduce her exposure to pesticides by controlling pest problems with fewer toxic products, such as sticky traps (Traps should not be set in areas where children can get to them)
- if she must have her home or property treated with pesticides, a pregnant woman should:

    * Have someone else apply the chemicals
- she also should leave the area for the amount of time indicated on the package instructions
   
    * Remove food, dishes and utensils from the area before the pesticide is applied
- afterward, she can have someone open the windows and wash off all surfaces on which food is prepared
    * Close all windows and turn off air conditioning when pesticides are used outdoors
- this helps keep fumes from coming into the house

    * Wear rubber gloves when gardening to prevent skin contact with pesticides

- pregnant women may be concerned about the safety of insect repellants during pregnancy
- the insect repellant DEET (diethyltoluamide) is among the most effective at keeping insects, such as mosquitoes and ticks, from biting
- preventing insect bites is important during pregnancy because mosquito- and tick-borne infections, such as West Nile virus and Lyme disease, may be harmful in pregnancy

- the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not recommend any special precautions for pregnant women using DEET-containing products, when used as directed on the product label
- pregnant woman can minimize her need for DEET by staying indoors during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most likely to bite
- she also can wear long pants and long sleeves