Safety Status: Trying to Conceive: Limited Pregnancy: Limited Breastfeeding: Limited What We Know: Painting involves exposure to various chemicals depending on the type of paint used. Common options include latex/water-based paints, oil-based paints, and specialty paints that may contain additional solvents or additives. Exposure occurs primarily through inhalation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and, to…

Safety Status: Trying to Conceive: Safe Pregnancy: Safe Breastfeeding: Safe What We Know: Insect repellents include various active ingredients such as DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide), picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), and 2-undecanone. These products come in forms including sprays, lotions, wipes, and clothing treatments, providing protection against mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects.…

Safety Status: Trying to Conceive: Safe Pregnancy: Safe Breastfeeding: Safe What We Know: Antiperspirants contain aluminum-based compounds (typically aluminum chlorohydrate or aluminum zirconium) that temporarily block sweat ducts, reducing perspiration. Antiperspirants can sometimes contain fragrance, essential oils, and other ingredients that can irritate the skin and in some cases contain phthalates and ingredients that the…

Safety Status: Trying to Conceive: Safe Pregnancy: Limited Postpartum: Limited What We Know: Epsom salt baths involve soaking in warm water containing magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt). This practice is used to relieve muscle tension, reduce inflammation, and potentially increase magnesium levels through transdermal absorption, though evidence for significant absorption is limited. For individuals trying to…

Safety Status: Trying to Conceive: Safe Pregnancy: Limited Postpartum: Safe What We Know: Weighted blankets are therapeutic coverings typically weighing between 5-30 pounds that use deep pressure stimulation to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and potentially improve sleep quality. They contain materials such as glass beads or plastic pellets distributed evenly throughout the blanket. For individuals…

Safety Status: Trying to Conceive: Limited Pregnancy: Avoid Postpartum: Limited What We Know: Cold plunges (also called cold water immersion or ice baths) involve immersing the body in water typically between 50-59°F (10-15°C) for short periods, usually 2-10 minutes. This practice is used for recovery after exercise, reducing inflammation, and potential immune and mood benefits.…

Safety Status: Trying to Conceive: Limited Pregnancy: Limited Postpartum: Limited What We Know: Chiropractic care involves the treatment of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine, using manual adjustment techniques to improve alignment, relieve pain, and support overall health. For individuals trying to conceive, chiropractic care receives a “Limited” classification primarily due to…

Safety Status: Trying to Conceive: Safe Pregnancy: Safe Postpartum: Safe What We Know: Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice involving the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing, manage pain, and balance energy flow. It is widely used for reproductive health concerns, pain management, and stress reduction. For…

Safety Status: Trying to Conceive: Safe Pregnancy: Safe Postpartum: Safe What We Know: Massage therapy encompasses various techniques involving manipulation of soft tissues to promote relaxation, pain relief, and improved circulation. Common forms include Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, sports massage, and specialized prenatal massage. For individuals trying to conceive, massage is considered safe and…

Safety Status: Trying to Conceive: Safe Pregnancy: Limited Postpartum: Safe What We Know: Massage guns (including brands like Theragun, Hypervolt, etc.) are handheld percussion therapy devices that deliver rapid, repetitive pressure to muscle tissue. They are used for relieving muscle tension, improving blood flow, and facilitating recovery after exercise. For individuals trying to conceive, massage…