This sheet is about exposure to DEET in pregnancy and while breastfeeding. This information should not take the place of medical care and advice from your healthcare provider. What is DEET? DEET (N,N-ethyl-m-toluamide or m-DET) is the active ingredient in many common brands of insect repellent. It is the most effective and well-studied insect repellent ingredient on the market. DEET is particularly effective in preventing mosquito bites and tick attachments. MotherToBaby has a fact sheet …
The Baby Blog: Environment & Natural Disasters
Perchloroethylene (PCE)
This sheet is about exposure to perchloroethylene in pregnancy and while breastfeeding. This information should not take the place of medical care and advice from your healthcare provider. What is perchloroethylene? Perchloroethylene (PCE) is a chemical that has been used as a degreaser and as a dry-cleaning agent. It has also been in paints, spot removers, printing inks, household cleaners and glues. Other names for PCE include PERC, perchlor and tetrachloroethylene. How would I be …
Methylmercury in Fish
This sheet is about exposure to methylmercury in pregnancy and while breastfeeding. This information should not take the place of medical care and advice from your healthcare providers. What is methylmercury? Methylmercury is an organic form of mercury. Methylmercury is found in water, soil, plants and animals. Methylmercury is different from elemental mercury, the type of mercury that is found in thermometers and some dental amalgams (tooth fillings) and inorganic mercury (which can be …
Pesticides
This sheet is about exposure to pesticides in pregnancy and while breastfeeding. This information should not take the place of medical care and advice from your healthcare provider. What are pesticides? Pesticide are substances used to prevent or destroy “pests” such as weeds, insects, animals (rodents and other), fungus and parasites that can harm crops or people. For example, pesticides are used to lower the number of mosquitoes which may carry the Zika virus or parasites that cause …
Pregnancy and Natural Disasters
This sheet is about exposure to natural disasters in pregnancy and while breastfeeding. This information should not take the place of medical care and advice from your healthcare providers. What is a natural disaster? Natural disasters are events that result from natural processes of the Earth. They can be harmful to human health and safety. Some examples of natural disasters include hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, and wildfires. How can I prepare for a natural disaster? The U.S. …
