Is Bug Spray (deet) Safe During Pregnancy?

Is bug spray (deet) safe during pregnancy?

EPA-registered repellents like DEET are safe and important for preventing Zika and other illnesses. In short, bug spray (deet) is generally considered safe during pregnancy when you follow the guidance below.

Why this is the guidance

In pregnancy, activities are weighed on three things: the risk of a fall or abdominal impact, the chance of overheating, and how hard your heart and joints are working as your body changes. Staying active is healthy — it is specific risks, not movement itself, that matter.

How to enjoy it safely

Bug spray (DEET) is a good choice in pregnancy. Listen to your body, stay hydrated, don't push to exhaustion, and modify as your bump grows and your balance changes. If something hurts or feels off, stop and check in with your provider.

What about breastfeeding?

Pregnancy and breastfeeding aren't the same — some things limited in pregnancy are perfectly fine once you're nursing, and occasionally the reverse. For bug spray (deet) while breastfeeding, check with your provider, since the answer can differ from the pregnancy guidance above.

The bottom line

Bug spray (DEET): generally considered safe in pregnancy. Enjoy it sensibly as part of a varied, healthy pregnancy. This page is general education, not medical advice — your provider knows your history and is the final word for your pregnancy.