11 Nov Two Causes For Getting More Mosquito Bites While Pregnant

The Zika virus has consistently been a topic of apprehension for people all around the world. It was initially associated with those who travel outside of the U.S., but with the number of locally-acquired cases nearing 150 according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Zika is becoming a growing concern among Americans. Pregnant women especially are concerned with mosquitoes that may be carrying the Zika virus. The effects of mosquito bites while pregnant, if the mosquito is infected with the Zika virus, can be devastating and include birth defects, such as an abnormally small head and brain, or even loss of the baby. The two main factors that attract mosquitoes, carbon dioxide and body temperature, contribute to an increased number of mosquito bites while pregnant.

Higher Carbon Dioxide Levels

Mosquitoes utilize sensory receptors that draw them to their host. A main factor that attracts mosquitoes is carbon dioxide, which they can detect from up to 100 feet away. Pregnancy contributes to breathing more heavily due to weight that is gained, especially during the final months. This causes more carbon dioxide to be produced and exhaled by pregnant women, leading to potentially more mosquito bites while pregnant. Research suggests that pregnant women tend to exhale 21% more carbon dioxide in the later months of their pregnancy versus other women, thus making it easier for mosquitoes to sense the presence of pregnant women more than those who are not.

Warmer Average Body Temperature

Once mosquitoes locate your general vicinity based on the carbon dioxide you exhale, they are able to determine your exact location based on your body temperature. Mosquitoes are attracted to heat, and pregnant women tend to have a higher body temperature than those who are not pregnant. This increase in body temperature also contributes to more substances being excreted on the skin, such as cholesterol and uric acid, causing higher chances of acquiring mosquito bites while pregnant.

Protect Yourself From Mosquito Bites While Pregnant

The best way to avoid mosquito bites is with an insect repellent that contains DEET, which is safe to use while pregnant and also safe on children. DEET works by preventing mosquitoes from detecting carbon dioxide and other chemicals that humans release.

NET effect contains DEET and is available in a unique roll-on applicator, so you can safely apply the repellent without worrying about breathing in any chemicals that tend to be a concern with aerosol repellents. DEET is effective in repelling mosquitoes that may be carrying the harmful Zika or West Nile viruses, as well as repelling other insects such as ticks, biting flies, chiggers, fleas and midges. To learn more about NET effect or to purchase your own bottle of our unique and effective repellent, visit our website today.