Can pregnant women use floral water?
Disease description:
Recently, there have been many mosquitoes, and I've been bitten multiple times. I want to use flower dew water (a type of insect repellent) to keep mosquitoes away. May I ask, can pregnant women use flower dew water?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu
Flavor water (flower dew water) has a complex composition, and its use is generally not recommended for pregnant women to avoid possible discomfort.
Common ingredients in flower dew water include alcohol, fragrance, ethyl butylacetylaminopropionate (commonly known as IR3535), DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide), and some even contain camphor. Alcohol evaporates easily and may irritate the respiratory tract of pregnant women; its excessive absorption can also be harmful to fetal development. Fragrance contains complex components that may trigger allergic reactions. Although IR3535 and DEET can repel mosquitoes, excessive use may allow absorption through the skin into the bloodstream, posing hidden risks. Camphor is even more dangerous as it can cross the placental barrier and affect the fetus, potentially causing fetal malformations or miscarriage in severe cases.
Therefore, it is recommended that pregnant women avoid using flower dew water during pregnancy, especially mosquito-repellent varieties. If necessary, choose products with relatively safe and non-irritating ingredients, and strictly follow the instructions provided. Avoid excessive or frequent use. If mosquito bites occur, a mild, soothing calamine lotion may be used. For mosquito prevention, physical methods such as wearing long-sleeved clothing, using mosquito nets, or selecting mosquito repellents with safe ingredients clearly labeled as suitable for pregnant women are recommended.
