Pregnancy And Pest Control: Safe Extermination?

Pest control is a concern for many pregnant women, who want to ensure they are doing everything possible to increase the chances of their baby being born healthy. While modern pest control methods don't use harsh industrial-grade chemicals, they still carry a certain level of toxicity that could pose a risk during pregnancy. The American Pregnancy Association recommends avoiding pesticide exposure during the first trimester, as this is when the neural tubes in the baby's brain are developing. However, pest infestations can also be dangerous to pregnant women and their babies, with mosquitoes carrying Zika and cockroaches triggering allergies and asthma. So, what precautions can be taken to ensure the safety of both the mother and child when it comes to pest control?

Pesticide exposure during pregnancy

Research has linked pesticide exposure during pregnancy to adverse neurologic and cognitive outcomes in children. For example, exposure to organophosphates during pregnancy has been associated with earlier delivery, increased abnormal reflexes in infants, poorer mental development, and an increased risk of developmental disorders. Another study found that exposure to organochlorines during pregnancy was linked to an increased level of behaviours associated with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. Pyrethroids, another type of insecticide, have also been found to pose significant risks to developing foetuses, with effects on children's IQ similar to those of lead exposure.

A 2020 study found an increased risk of holoprosencephaly (HPE) after maternal exposure to pesticides during pregnancy, including personal insect repellents and insecticides for pets. Pyrethroids, a common constituent in pesticides, can cause a severe reduction in a child's IQ at a vital stage of growth. Organochlorines, another category of pesticides, have been linked to problems with focus and attention in children, which could be indicative of ADHD. Organophosphates have been associated with an increased risk of premature delivery and slow mental development in children up to two years of age.

To minimise pesticide exposure during pregnancy, pregnant women are advised to choose organic fruits and vegetables whenever possible. They should also avoid using pesticides in or around their homes and take steps to prevent pest problems, such as sealing cracks and crevices and storing food properly. If pest problems persist, it is recommended to use lower-toxicity pest controls such as bait or sticky traps and natural or organic pesticide products.

When undertaking pest control while pregnant, it is advisable to have someone else apply the pesticides and to vacate the area during application. Removing food, dishes, and utensils from the area before using pesticides and washing the area afterward can also reduce exposure. Keeping windows closed when pesticides are sprayed outside and wearing protective clothing when gardening can further minimise exposure.

Pest infestations vs pesticides

Pest infestations and pesticides are both concerns during pregnancy, but which poses a greater risk? While pesticide exposure carries risks, the dangers associated with pest infestations may outweigh them. Here's an in-depth look at the issue:

The Risks of Pest Infestations

Cockroaches, mosquitoes, fleas, and flies are common household pests that can carry various diseases and trigger allergies and respiratory issues. Cockroach waste, for example, is known to trigger asthma and nasal allergies, which can be detrimental to pregnant women and their children. Mosquitoes can carry contagions like Zika, West Nile, Chikungunya, dengue, and malaria, with Zika being associated with certain birth defects. Flea bites may lead to infections if scratched, and while rare, they can also carry the bacteria responsible for the bubonic plague.

The Risks of Pesticides

Pesticides are designed to attack the nervous system of insects, and exposure during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, can be harmful. Studies have linked pesticide exposure to an increased risk of birth defects, miscarriage, developmental disabilities, and autism in children. Pyrethroids, a common constituent in pesticides, have been linked to a reduction in children's IQ, similar to lead exposure. Organochlorines, another type of pesticide, have been associated with attention and focus problems, including ADHD. Organophosphates have been linked to an increased risk of premature delivery and slow mental development in children.

Weighing the Risks

While pesticide exposure should be minimised during pregnancy, completely foregoing pest control can also have detrimental effects. The key is to balance the risks by choosing the least toxic pest control methods and ensuring proper ventilation and caution during and after treatment.

Tips for Safer Pest Control

• Always inform your pest control company about your pregnancy so they can take extra precautions.
• If possible, leave the premises during pest control treatments and ensure proper ventilation upon your return.
• Remove all food, utensils, and dishes from the treatment area, and wash the area after treatment.
• If pesticide is sprayed outdoors, stay indoors and close the windows.
• If you must apply pesticides yourself, do so sparingly and only where needed.
• Consider alternative methods like glue traps for cockroaches, keeping areas dry to avoid fruit flies, and using pet repellents for fleas.

In summary, while pesticides carry risks during pregnancy, pest infestations can also have severe health consequences. The key is to be informed, take precautions, and choose the least toxic options to protect both your health and that of your unborn child.

Making pesticide use safer

Pesticides are toxic chemicals designed to kill or control pests. While they can be effective in protecting your home and plants from damage, they can also pose health risks if not used properly. Here are some tips to make pesticide use safer:

Select the right pesticide

Before using any pesticide, verify if you really need it. Identify the specific pest causing the issue and research alternative management methods. Choose a pesticide that is effective against the target pest and poses the least risk to human health and the environment. Some pesticides are selective and only target a few specific organisms, while others have a broader spectrum and can kill a wider range of pests.

Read and follow label instructions

Always read the pesticide label, which contains important information about the product. Follow the directions and precautions on the label to the letter. Do not use more pesticide than directed, and do not use it for pests that are not indicated on the label.

Use non-chemical methods

If possible, opt for non-chemical control methods to reduce or eliminate pest problems. This includes removing sources of food and water for pests, destroying pest shelters and breeding sites, and using physical or mechanical control methods such as traps or barriers.

Take protective measures

Wear protective clothing and equipment when handling pesticides, such as impermeable gloves, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt. Cover your skin and eyes, and avoid using lightweight dust masks that may absorb the spray. Wash your hands immediately after applying pesticides.

Keep children, pets, and non-essential individuals away

Ensure that children, pets, and anyone who is not involved in the application are out of the area before mixing and applying pesticides. Remove toys, clothing, food, utensils, and other personal items from the treatment area to avoid contamination.

Mix and store pesticides properly

Mix pesticides outdoors or in well-ventilated areas, and only mix the amount you need for the short term to avoid storing or disposing of excess. Store leftover pesticides properly, and do not keep them in containers that can be mistaken for drink containers.

Be cautious when spraying

When spraying pesticides, avoid windy conditions to prevent drift. Close doors and windows when spraying outdoors, and keep them open when returning home after treatment. Do not spray on hard surfaces that can be easily washed off into storm drains or waterways.

Prevent spills and contamination

Have the necessary supplies on hand to contain spills, such as paper towels, sawdust, or kitty litter. Avoid using excessive water, as it may spread the pesticide and harm the environment.

Seek information and advice

If you have questions or concerns about pesticide use, contact the National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC) or your local Poison Control Center. Stay informed about potential risks and safety precautions, especially if using commercial applicators or lawn care services.

Alternatives to chemical pesticides

While pest control is necessary, there are ways to minimise your interaction with pests. Here are some alternatives to chemical pesticides:

• Cockroaches: Cockroaches are attracted to food residue on dishes, crumbs on floors, and moisture sources such as water in the sink. To keep them at bay, ensure that your kitchen is clean and dry. Catnip and hedgeapples, the inedible fruit of the Osage orange tree, have been found to repel cockroaches. You can also use glue traps, which are made of cardboard and trap the insects when they walk over the adhesive material.
• Fruit flies: Fruit flies are attracted to kitchen sinks, so ensure that your sink is dry and use a sink stopper to reduce the number of fruit flies.
• Mosquitoes: Commercial traps that use heat, light, and carbon dioxide can be used to lure and trap mosquitoes. These are usually propane-powered and will treat an area of about 3/4 of an acre.
• Fleas: Flea repellents like Frontline or Advantage can be applied to pets once a month to make them unpalatable to fleas. You can also make a homemade flea trap with soapy water and a light.

In addition to these alternatives, it's important to take preventive measures to avoid attracting pests. For example, cockroaches can enter the home through cardboard boxes and paper bags, so it's best to remove these items after opening any packaging.

Tips to stay safe during pest control

Pest control is an important issue for everyone, but especially for pregnant women. While modern pest control methods don't use harsh industrial-grade chemicals, they still carry a certain level of toxicity that poses a risk during pregnancy. Here are some tips to help you stay safe during pest control:

• Avoid being at home during pest control treatments: It is generally recommended that pregnant women leave the premises during pest control applications, especially if harsh chemicals are being used. Come back only when the pesticides have dried, or after a few hours as a precaution.
• Inform the pest control company about your pregnancy: This is crucial as it allows them to take appropriate precautions and offer safer alternatives or adjust their treatment plan.
• Choose licensed pest technicians: Licensed pest control professionals are more likely to be aware of the potential risks and take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
• Understand the pesticides being used: Be fully aware of the pesticides being used and their potential side effects. Avoid choosing pesticides yourself and always double-check the ones used by professionals.
• Keep food items, utensils, and dishes away from the treated area: Remove all food items, utensils, cooking tools, and dishes from the area being treated. Keep these items out of the way until several hours after pesticide application.
• Keep windows closed if pesticides are being sprayed outside: If pesticide is being sprayed outdoors, stay indoors and keep the windows closed to limit your exposure.
• Use mosquito repellents with the lowest concentration of active ingredients: When using mosquito protection, opt for repellents with the lowest concentration of DEET, picaridin, para-menthane-diol, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535. These provide the same level of protection but for shorter durations, so you will need to reapply if you are outdoors for extended periods.
• Maintain hygiene and change clothes after coming in contact with pesticides: If your partner or any other family member works with pesticides or has been exposed to them, have them change out of their work clothes, wash them immediately, and take a shower to remove any residue before entering your home.
• Consider alternative methods for pest control: Look for less toxic ways to eliminate pests, such as glue-based traps for cockroaches, keeping areas dry to avoid fruit flies, using heat and light traps for mosquitoes, and applying flea repellents on pets.

Frequently asked questions