Is mosquito incense harmful to pregnant women?
Recently, there have been many mosquitoes at home. I plan to use mosquito incense to repel them. May I ask, is mosquito incense harmful to pregnant women?
Doctor's answer (1)
Coil mosquito repellents pose certain risks to pregnant women and are therefore not recommended for use.
The main ingredient in regular mosquito coils is pyrethroid. When burned, it releases into the air and although it can repel mosquitoes, prolonged inhalation by pregnant women may allow pyrethroids to enter the body through the respiratory system, affecting the nervous system and possibly interfering with normal fetal development. Additionally, burning mosquito coils also produces harmful chemical substances such as benzene and formaldehyde, as well as fine particles. Benzene may damage the pregnant woman's hematopoietic system, formaldehyde can irritate the respiratory tract, causing discomfort such as coughing and dizziness, and fine particles, when inhaled, may increase the burden on the pregnant woman's heart and lungs.
In comparison, electric mosquito repellent liquids or mats are relatively safer, but it is still important to choose products from reputable brands with mild ingredients, and to ensure indoor ventilation when using them. To protect the health of both the pregnant woman and the fetus, it is recommended to prioritize physical methods of mosquito prevention, such as using mosquito nets, window screens, or wearing long-sleeved clothing and long pants, and to minimize the use of mosquito coils.
If mosquito repellent products must be used, choose products that are of reliable quality and have safe ingredients, and follow the instructions strictly. At the same time, ensure good indoor ventilation to reduce the accumulation of harmful substances.
