When you’re riding that pregnancy wave, the nesting urge hits you like a freight train. You’re itching to create that cozy, calming, and oh-so-adorable nursery straight from your dreams. And sometimes, that means picking up a paintbrush and giving those walls a fresh look. But hold on a sec, because there’s a bit of pregnancy wisdom that says, “Don’t paint, mama.” Let’s unpack this age-old rule and see if it still holds water in 2023, considering all the fancy paint formulas we have now.
Here’s the scoop on painting while you’re expecting: it’s generally considered low risk, but it’s always wise to tread carefully, especially since there haven’t been any studies on how it might affect your bun in the oven. Dr. Monte Swarup, OB-GYN extraordinaire and founder of Vaginal Health Hub, breaks it down for us. The main reason folks say to steer clear of painting during pregnancy is to keep both mom and baby safe from those potentially pesky paint fumes.
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. It’s all about the type of paint you’re using, what’s inside it, how long you’re huffing those fumes, and whether you’ve got decent ventilation. Shandra Scruggs, a labor and delivery nurse and doula, knows her stuff and says it’s all about the chemicals and fumes hiding in some paints. So, when in doubt, do a label check. Zero-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints are the bee’s knees when you’ve got a bun in the oven. Dr. Swarup adds that water-based acrylic or latex paints are better than their oil-based cousins, which pack solvents that can spell trouble.
But hey, there are some paints you should steer clear of, like the ones with ethers, biocides, and ethylene glycol. And please, for the love of all things baby, avoid industrial paint. Oh, and don’t even think about scraping, stripping, or sanding any paint from the pre-lead-regulation era of the ’70s. That stuff’s got lead, and it’s bad news for both you and your mini-me.
Now, let’s talk risks. If you’ve got asthma or any other respiratory hiccups, it might be time to pass the paintbrush to a buddy. Why? Well, those paint fumes and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can wreak havoc on your breathing, and that’s no good for you or the little one. Plus, if you’re allergy-prone or your skin’s easily irritable, some paints might leave you with a pounding head, dizziness, or an itchy epidermis.
As for what it could do to your baby, we’re in murky waters. See, there isn’t a whole lot of research on this topic. The American Pregnancy Association calls household painting a low-exposure deal, but most healthcare pros will suggest you find a surrogate painter, especially during that crucial first trimester.
But hey, if you’re determined to get artsy while pregnant, there are ways to make it happen safely. First off, chat with your OB-GYN or healthcare guru before you unleash your inner Picasso.
Start by grabbing a low-VOC or zero-VOC paint. Minimize your exposure to latex paints with ethylene glycol ethers and biocides. Oh, and ditch the oil-based paints, pronto. Crack those windows wide open for some fresh air, and take breaks to keep your exposure in check. Gloves and a mask can help reduce contact with those pesky fumes. And don’t overexert yourself – take it easy and hydrate like a boss.
But what if you’d rather not tango with paint fumes at all? No worries! There are plenty of ways to jazz up that nursery without a single paint can. Think stick-on wallpaper for a quick style boost, decorate with art, photos, and prints, or go wild with rugs, throw pillows, curtains, and lamps. Mirrors, floating shelves, and wall décor can also spruce up the place. And when it comes to furniture, pick pieces that bring color and charm to the room – a mobile, perhaps? So, there you have it, mama-to-be – painting or not, your nursery dreams are within reach!