Pesticide is a mixture of chemicals designed to repel or lessen the impact of unwanted pests, which includes certain plants, bugs, animals, and germs. Pregnant women and children are the most vulnerable to pesticides.
If you’re an expectant mother, you should learn about the risks associated with pesticides and why it’s best to avoid them.
How Do Pesticides Affect Pregnancy?
Pesticides attack an insect’s nervous system, causing them to die. Maternal exposure to pesticides can increase the risk of your baby experiencing congenital abnormalities. Mothers-to-be must avoid this strong substance during pregnancy to protect their baby and themselves.
Continue reading to learn how you can reduce your exposure to pesticides.
How Can Pregnant Women Be Exposed to Pesticides?
Expectant mothers can inadvertently expose themselves to pesticides in many ways, including:
- Inhaling them
- Ingesting them by eating foods that were treated with pesticides
- Absorbing them through their skin
Pesticides may be a part of your everyday life. Consider these examples:
- When farmers spray pesticides outdoors, the wind can carry particles to other areas. They can travel to nearby food and water supply.
- Expectant mothers who live near a farm
- Lawns in public parks, which may be sprayed with pesticides
- Pet products, such as flea and tick shampoo
- Cleaning products
- Rodent poison
The Unfortunate Effects of Pesticides on Babies
Avoid using pesticides in your garden during pregnancy. Exposure can lead to:
- Birth defects
- Learning problems
- Low birth weight
- Premature birth
What Can I Do to Reduce My Exposure to Pesticides?
Pregnant women can minimize their exposure to harmful chemicals by:
- Washing their hands before eating
- Thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables
- Peeling fruits and vegetables
- Eating organic foods, which are grown without the use of pesticides
- Eating fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables
- Trimming the fat off meat and poultry (chicken, turkey, and fish)
- Avoiding exposure to agricultural areas
Don’t panic if you were recently exposed to pesticides. For instance, if you treated your pet for fleas and accidentally exposed yourself to chemicals, you should be fine. Discuss the situation with your doctor on your next check-up. Usually, the risks come from long-term or intense exposure.
Can I Use Insect Repellent?
Many people believe pesticides and insect repellents are the same, but repellents are made for human use. They’re meant to keep insects away, such as mosquitoes and ticks. Generally, they’re safe to use in small amounts during pregnancy, but you should consider the following alternatives when applicable:
- Stay indoors in the morning and afternoon because this is when mosquitoes are most active
- Wear pants and a long-sleeved shirt when going outdoors
- Buy a mosquito net bed canopy
Additionally, if you have screen doors, make sure they’re free of holes
Summit Lawn & Pest Control Can Do the Work for You
Your lawn needs routine care to stay healthy. If you’re expecting a baby, you can still stay on top of your gardening by working with Summit Lawn & Pest Control. Our lawn care professionals specialize in pest control, so we can do all the hard work for you. Sit back, relax, and call us for a free quote.
