Pregnancy: Use of insect repellents when tanning

Before deciding to sunbathe outside for the skin to absorb natural sunlight, many people use insect repellents to prevent insect bites and stings. Pregnant women have to be exceptionally careful when using insect repellents during pregnancy due to the sensitivity of their skins and the possible impact of the chemical on not only themselves, but their developing unborn baby.

Pregnant women are advised to proceed with caution and consider using natural alternatives when using insect repellent products:

• Impact of chemicals in insect repellents on pregnancy
• Alternative insect-repellents when pregnant

Impact of chemicals in insect repellents on pregnancy

Deet-based insect repellents contain the chemical N-diethyl-m-toluamide, and are considered fairly safe for use for pregnant women by the NHS when at approximately 50 percent levels.

How the product works depends on the manufacturer guidelines which should be carefully followed to prevent overdose. The reason is because the skin absorbs the Deet chemical which enters the bloodstream. In lower doses, this chemical may not present harm, but in higher does (or contexts increasing dosage effects) can result in severe illness.

A 2010 study produced findings of a condition called hypospadias (which affects how the foreskin of the penis opens) present in first trimester male babies where the mother used insect repellent. The study recommended further research into different types of insect repellents, their chemical compositions, and use periods and quantities.

In addition, during pregnancy, a woman's skin is far more sensitive and prone to irritation. Chemicals, such as Deet, usually not harmful, may cause skin allergy reactions that result in infections, harmful both to expectant mother and child. Careful attention should be given to the skin and any chemicals used during pregnancy. More natural alternatives to chemical use may be a solution.

Alternative insect-repellents when pregnant

For pregnant women, there are other alternatives to keep insects at bay, such as burning citronella candles, or using natural products recommended through the pharmacy. Some pregnant women opt to post-pone travel to countries where insect-causing diseases, such as West Nile virus and Malaria, are prevalent until after the birth.

Such insect-borne diseases are harmful to the developing foetus if contracted. When pregnant, before using insect repellent products, or when considering travel, it is best to seek advice from a medical professional.

Tanning and Pregnancy:

• Tanning and Pregnancy
• Pregnancy: Hair removal before or after tanning
• Using hair removal creams when pregnant
• Pregnancy: Use of insect repellents when tanning
• Pregnancy: Skin sensitivity and itching when tanning
• Pregnancy and Sunbathing
• Pregnancy: Tanning, Heatstroke and Hyperthermia
• Pregnancy: Tanning and Heat cramps

• Pregnancy and Sunless Tanning
• Pregnancy and Tanning Beds
• Pregnancy and Tanning Pills
• Pregnancy and Fake Tans
• Pregnancy and tanning with Henna
• Sun, UV care and the law