People often express concern over their exposure to chemicals and pesticides while pregnant; this concern is valid; however, it’s also important to keep in mind that these substances could potentially pose risks to your unborn baby.
At its most crucial, avoiding exposure to these chemicals should be of primary concern during the first trimester when your baby’s nervous system is rapidly maturing.
Pests
Pests are animals and plants that cause a nuisance, damage crops or livestock, or cause illness – examples include ants, flies, mites, spiders and birds.
Organisms become pests when they evade natural controls like insects that regulate their abundance (e.g. locust swarms that strip landscapes bare).
But some organisms can become pests due to their behavior or abundance; for instance, rodents are considered a menace when they invade homes and cause damage, as they destroy crops.
To effectively combat pests, it’s crucial to identify organisms and monitor their presence and impact. With this data in hand, you can select an effective management strategy tailored specifically for each situation.
Pesticides
Pesticides are chemicals designed to eliminate, control or prevent certain organisms (such as insects, weeds and rodents ). They are commonly found in agricultural settings as well as industries, businesses and households.
Pregnancy can expose women to more pesticides than usual, potentially having negative repercussions for both themselves and their unborn child.
At this critical stage of pregnancy, it’s essential that you limit your exposure to pesticides. Cleanliness at home, washing clothes prior to sleeptime and not being exposed to odors from pesticides are all ways of decreasing risk of exposure.
Pesticides can be absorbed through skin contact, inhalation and absorption through other sources, ultimately entering the bloodstream and potentially leading to chronic health conditions such as cancer, reproductive harm and birth defects. Even short-term impacts from pesticide exposure like headaches may become lifelong issues.
Insect Repellents
Insect repellents (lotions, sprays or oils) can be applied directly to skin or clothing to reduce mosquito, fly and tick bites and the risks of mosquito-borne diseases like malaria, Zika virus, West Nile virus and Lyme disease that could threaten pregnant women and their unborn babies.
DEET-based insect repellents can be safely used during pregnancy if used according to product label instructions, though there have been studies showing it enters bloodstream via absorption by pregnant women using it.
Non-DEET products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-3, 8-diol (PMD) may also provide protection from mosquito bites; however, such repellents should only be used on children aged 3 years and up.
Some individuals prefer natural insect repellents over chemical-based ones as they tend to be safer; however, these alternatives may not be as effective.
Pest Control Companies
Pesticide exposure is one of the major concerns during gestation, and parents should avoid being exposed. Parents are warned against this exposure in order to protect both themselves and their unborn baby from potential risks.
If you are pregnant and experiencing a pest infestation, professional assistance from a trusted pest control company should be sought to identify which insects are causing trouble, develop an effective treatment plan and apply it effectively.
As part of your search process, look for companies with GreenPro Service Certification or QualityPro certification to ensure their practices are environmentally-friendly and their staff knowledgeable on pest control techniques. They should also carry general liability and worker’s compensation coverage so as to provide additional protection in case an incident should arise.
When hiring professionals, make sure to choose a reliable company and request that they present a contract outlining how their services will be provided, with timeframe and exclusions or penalties listed if services don’t materialize as promised.
To find a reliable pest control company with the necessary certifications and coverage, a simple online search for “exterminator near me” can bring up a list of options. However, it’s important to do your due diligence and research each company before making a decision.
Check their website for information on their certifications and insurance coverage, as well as any reviews or testimonials from previous customers. Contacting the company directly and asking about their pest control techniques and guarantees can also help you make an informed decision.
By taking these steps and choosing a reputable company, you can ensure that your pest control needs are addressed in an environmentally-friendly and effective manner.
