Search icon

Pregnancy

19th Sep 2018

Is it safe for me to wear perfume during pregnancy?

All you need to know.

Denise Curtin

A common question and one which is often met with a lot of confusion.

When you’re pregnant, a spritz of your favourite perfume can be just what you need to give you that spring in your step and keep you feeling fabulous. But, since there is so much debate about whether or not this is a good idea, many are left confused as to what they should do?

So, let’s clear the air.

In general, yes, it is OK to wear perfume during pregnancy.

According to Melissa Schweiger and Annette Rubin, authors of Belli Beautiful: The Essential Guide to the Safest Health and Beauty Products for Pregnancy, Mom, and Baby – they believe that although you shouldn’t be deterred from using your favourite fragrance, there are some things to keep in mind.

Firstly, some fragrances contain chemicals called phthalates. According to The Bump, some of these chemicals could potentially disrupt the development of male reproductive organs, however, this research is inconclusive and so, Sara Twogood, MD, FACOG, assistant professor of clinical obstetrics and gynaecology explains that if you’re already using perfume during your pregnancy – don’t worry. She recommends you continue using it as normal but to think about limiting your overall use of fragranced products and opt for scent-free lotions and deodorants instead.

Secondly, if you find you’re personally suffering from sensitivity to smells, headaches, dizziness, nausea and vomiting during pregnancy then it’s probably best to avoid wearing perfume during this period. This is simply because perfume can make unpleasant symptoms even worse for you.

Other than that, work away as normal with you’re perfume just don’t go overboard with too many fragranced products says Baby Med. Body sprays and scented lotions are a great way to get the scent you want without having such an intense aroma.

And as always, if you’re still unsure or have specific queries, speak to your GP as they’ll advise you best.

Sorted.