Painting while pregnant first trimester

It's best to limit your exposure to paint and paint fumes while you're pregnant.

Painting while pregnant third trimester

Most paint contains solvents (petroleum-based chemicals) that can cause health problems if you inhale too much of them.

Research into paint exposure during pregnancy hasn't shown consistent results. Studies haven't been able to measure the exact amount of paint exposure that could pose a danger, and researchers can't put pregnant women at risk by purposely exposing them to a possible hazard.

Some studies have shown that exposure to solvents during pregnancy may increase the risk of miscarriage, and heavy, continued solvent exposure may raise the risk of birth defects and learning problems as your baby grows up.

Having a room in your home painted probably isn't a high risk for you or your baby, but you may choose not to take the chance.

If you need to have painting done, have someone else do the painting if you can. Whether or not you're the one doing the painting, take these precautions:

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