Electric Blanket & Pregnancy

Sperm Count

• If you are trying to conceive, do not use an electric blanket. Men's use of an electric blanket can lower sperm count due to the testicles becoming overheated.

Birth Defects Due to Electromagnetic Fields

• At least one study has shown a possible link between using electric blankets and birth defects, due to exposure to electromagnetic fields. According to a study performed by the research division of Kaiser Permanente Medical Group and published in the Epidemiology journal in 1995, "The risk [of congenital urinary tract anomalies] also appeared to increase with increasing duration of electric blanket use."

  According to a report by Dr. Nabeel Kouka in 2000, ̶0;The two most dangerous home appliances are the electric blanket and waterbed heaters̶1; due to the EMF levels and amount of exposure over time. He stated that EMF from these types of appliances ̶0;may cause...DNA mutations that cause birth defects in the fetus.̶1;

Birth Defects Due to Intense Heat

• The Texas Department of Health conducted a study, published in 2004 in the Epidemiology journal, exploring the risk of neural tube defects in children born to women with hyperthermia caused by sources including electric blankets. The study concluded that ̶0;[m]aternal hyperthermia increases the risk for NTD-affected offspring̶1; and that ̶0;[w]omen intending to become pregnant should avoid intense heat exposures.̶1;

Consideration

• When in doubt, it is usually better to play it safe. In this case, since the majority of evidence is inconclusive regarding electric blankets and fetuses, it is better to withhold using the blanket for the duration of your pregnancy.

Ask Your Doctor

• As with any question you may have regarding your pregnancy, always consult your physician. He knows your specific body and can make a sound judgment call.

Other Solutions

• If you regularly feel chilled, change the heat setting on your thermostat and dress in layers. Use the electric blanket to warm your bed before you go to sleep each night, making sure to turn it off before you climb in.