Pesticides are chemicals that are used to kill or keep insects and rodents away. High exposure to these chemicals is a concern especially for expectant mothers. During the first trimester, the nervous system of the baby is rapidly developing, so you may want to avoid any contact with pesticides. This is because it can affect the development of the brain and nervous system of the baby. It may also lead to low birth weight, miscarriage, preterm birth, birth defects in babies and learning disabilities.
 

 

Pesticides and Pregnancy

 
Domestic pesticides and insecticides :  Pregnant women should avoid all types of pesticides even those found at home. These increase the risk for birth defects such as oral clefts, neural tube defects, limb defects and heart defects. Children who are exposed to indoor pesticides are at increased risk of leukemia.

Agriculture pesticides and insecticides : If you are pregnant and live near an agriculture area, you should try to  avoid exposure to pesticides. Increased exposure during the first 3 to 8 weeks of pregnancy increases your baby’s risk of neural tube defects .

Organic and natural pesticides : Most of the toxins in these chemicals are naturally present in plants. Natural chemicals also have the potential  of causing harm if not used properly. Be sure to read all the warning labels before using any  of these chemicals.

Helpful tips on pesticide and insecticide use during pregnancy.

 
You should try to avoid using chemicals in your home, on your pets and in your garden during pregnancy especially in the first trimester.

If you need treatment done in your home, on your pets or in your garden,  follow these guidelines to reduce your risk of exposure

• let someone else apply the chemicals
• remove foods, dishes and utensils before the treatment
• leave  the area for the amount of time indicated on the package of the pesticides
• wash the area where food is normally prepared after the treatment
• open the window to allow ventilation after the treatment
• wear protective clothing during gardening to avoid exposure to these chemicals.

 
Contact poison control on  call 1-800-222-1222 when pesticide is swallowed, inhaled or comes into contact with your skin.