In this article:
How Mosquito Repellents Work
Mosquito repellents are designed either to repel (keep mosquitoes away) or kill them.- Mosquito coils and mats release smoke or vapour containing pyrethroids like allethrin, which affect mosquito nervous systems.
- Liquid vaporisers (plug-ins) use heat to release a steady stream of insecticide vapour.
- Aerosol sprays work by directly killing or stunning mosquitoes with chemical fog.
- Topical creams and lotions usually contain active ingredients like DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide), picaridin, or permethrin, which block mosquito receptors from detecting human scent.
- Natural alternatives such as citronella, eucalyptus, or neem oil mask your smell or irritate mosquitoes, but their effectiveness is generally weaker and shorter-lived.
Why Repellent Safety Matters in Pregnancy
Pregnancy changes how your body reacts to the environment:- Heightened smell and nausea: Strong odours from coils or sprays can trigger vomiting and headaches.
- More sensitive lungs: Smoke or vapour may worsen shortness of breath, already common in later trimesters.
- Increased skin absorption: Hormonal shifts make skin more permeable, raising concerns about creams and sprays.
- Foetal vulnerability: Even small amounts of certain chemicals may cross the placenta. Research is ongoing, but precaution is key.
Common Types of Repellents and Their Risks
1. Mosquito Coils and MatsThese remain popular in Indian homes, especially during power cuts. But they release smoke containing allethrin and other pyrethroids, along with fine particles.
- Risks in pregnancy: Studies suggest long-term exposure to coil smoke may irritate the lungs, worsen asthma, and even increase indoor air pollution to levels similar to cigarette smoke. Occasional, brief use in a well-ventilated space may pose low risk, but daily exposure is best avoided.
- Trimester concerns: In the first trimester, nausea and vomiting may intensify. Later, prolonged inhalation may add to breathlessness.
Brands like GoodKnight or AllOut are widely used. These release a steady stream of vapourised pyrethroids.
- Risks in pregnancy: Considered less smoky than coils, but prolonged exposure in small, closed rooms can cause dizziness or throat irritation. Animal studies raise concerns about foetal toxicity with very high exposure, but human data at household levels are limited.
- Precaution: Use only in well-ventilated rooms and avoid sleeping with one right next to your bed.
Quick sprays can kill mosquitoes instantly, but they also leave chemical residue in the air.
- Risks in pregnancy: Inhaling aerosol droplets can irritate the lungs. Repeated exposure may not be ideal during pregnancy, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces.
- Practical tip: If you must use them, spray when you are not in the room, and wait until the air clears before returning.
Brands like Odomos (DEET-based) are common in India. DEET and picaridin are among the most studied topical repellents worldwide.
- Risks in pregnancy: According to the WHO and CDC, DEET at concentrations up to 30% is considered safe in pregnancy, with no evidence of harm to the foetus when used as directed. Skin reactions are rare but possible.
- Best use: Apply only on exposed skin, not under clothing or on cuts, and wash off after returning indoors.
These are marketed as safer alternatives.
- Risks in pregnancy: Generally less irritating but also less effective. Citronella candles or oils may protect for only 20–30 minutes. Neem oil can cause skin irritation in some people.
- Balance point: Natural repellents may be used in combination with physical barriers like nets, but relying on them alone in high-risk malaria or dengue areas may not be enough.
Risk Factors That Make You More Vulnerable
Some conditions make chemical exposure riskier in pregnancy:- Asthma or allergies: Coils, sprays, and vaporisers can worsen symptoms.
- Small, poorly ventilated homes: Common in Indian cities, these increase inhalation risks.
- Occupational exposure: Working night shifts or outdoor settings with frequent spray use can raise risk.
- High mosquito density: More frequent repellent use increases cumulative exposure.
Safer Management Strategies
If you’re concerned about mosquito repellents but still need protection, here are practical steps:- Physical barriers first: Mosquito nets (including medicated ones recommended by WHO), long-sleeved clothing, and window screens are the safest options.
- Ventilation is key: Always keep a window or fan running if using coils or vaporisers.
- Distance matters: Place coils outside doors or windows rather than inside bedrooms.
- Time your use: Switch on a vaporiser an hour before bedtime, then turn it off once you’re under a net.
- Safer repellents: Choose creams with DEET (up to 30%), picaridin, or IR3535, which have the strongest safety data in pregnancy.
- Natural support: Use citronella candles or neem leaves as supplementary measures, but not your only line of defence.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.
FAQs on Mosquito Coils and Repellents in Pregnancy: Are They Safe?
- Is it safe to use mosquito coils every night during pregnancy?
It’s better to avoid daily coil use. Coils release smoke that can irritate lungs and increase indoor pollution. Use physical barriers or vaporisers in well-ventilated rooms instead. - Can I apply Odomos cream while pregnant?
Yes. Odomos (DEET-based) within standard concentrations is considered safe in pregnancy. Apply only to exposed skin and wash off after use. - Are natural repellents like citronella safer?
They are gentler but less effective. Use them with nets or long clothing. Don’t rely on them alone in areas with high malaria or dengue risk. - What’s the safest way to keep mosquitoes away while pregnant?
Nets, screens, and protective clothing are the safest. Combine these with limited use of topical repellents or vaporisers if needed.
