Acrylic Paints & Pregnancy

During pregnancy, you become more aware everyday of what you eat, drink and expose your expectant body to. At times, it can be difficult to feel you can relax when there are so many safety precautions and potential risks. Fortunately, acrylic paint is a type of paint that is generally safe to use during pregnancy. If you are concerned about the paint you are using, consult your midwife or obstetrician before starting a painting project.

  1. History

    • Many pregnancy concerns about paint exposure stem from the use of lead-based paints, which were commonly used in houses built in the 1970s. These paints are hazardous to children, infants and fetuses. If your rent or have purchased a house containing lead-based paint, your landlord or realtor should have provided you with lead paint information. The March of Dimes website notes that prolonged exposure to lead-based paint can cause complications such as a "miscarriage, preterm delivery, low birth weight and developmental delays in the infant." Lead-based paint can be removed from a home; however, the March of Dimes cautions that pregnant women and children should not be in the home until the lead-based paint is removed.

    Acrylic Paint

    • Acrylic paint is one of the most common paints on the market. It is used primarily for paintings. Acrylic paint is used by most school art programs and is favored because it is easy to clean and is generally safe for pregnancy use. Lori Wolfe, a genetic counselor notes in a Babycenter.com article on paint fumes that acrylic (latex) paints do not contain solvents and that acrylic paint can be cleaned with soap and water."

    Risks

    • Prolonged exposure to paint fumes could pose a risk to your unborn child. Because most women avoid painting during pregnancy, there are few studies that can pinpoint the exact risks paint exposure can cause.

    Side Effects

    • The fumes in acrylic paint when you are pregnant may cause you to feel light-headed or to experience nausea. If you have particularly sensitive skin, acrylic paint may irritate your skin.

    Prevention

    • Use acrylic paint in a well ventilated area. The American Pregnancy Association website notes you should take breaks during the project to avoid prolonged exposure to paint fumes and to wear protective clothing to avoid skin exposure. If you are concerned about exposing yourself to paint fumes in general, leave the painting projects to your partner.

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