Is perfume safe to wear while you are pregnant?

Judging by the numbers of you who buy unique fragrances online through our store, here at Scent City, we feel safe in saying that women across the country adore their perfumes – often, it’s a case of the more niche they are, the better. Perfume makes you feel beautiful, confident and sexy – but what about when you have a ‘bun in the oven’? Is it still safe to wear when you are pregnant?

The short answer to that question is that it generally is, although there are still a few factors that we would suggest you bear in mind.

The continuing debate about phthalates  

Much of the discussion about the relative safety of perfume during pregnancy relates to a class of ingredients known as phthalates, which may be contained in some perfumes and fragrances. Studies conducted on animals found evidence that exposure to certain phthalates may have a disruptive effect on the development of male reproductive organs.

It isn’t always obvious which fragrances contain phthalates – which are used to make scent last longer – and if so, how much. In any case, there’s no conclusive data to suggest that phthalates should necessarily be a concern to pregnant women, and if a woman has been using perfume or another product with a fragrance during her pregnancy already, she should not be concerned about it having an ill effect on the baby.

If you are still worried, we would suggest that you limit the number of fragrant products you use each day, also including lotions and deodorants, or temporarily swap your perfume for a natural or chemical free alternative.

What else do you need to consider?

While you probably don’t have to fret much about phthalates, there are certain other effects that perfume can have during your pregnancy that you should bear in mind. Among the common symptoms of pregnancy are a heightened sense of smell and greater sensitivity to certain scents, so you will need to be more careful with your choice of scent if you don’t want to feel sick during the day.

With some perfumes also liable to worsen certain other frequent pregnancy symptoms such as headaches and dizziness, we would suggest that you first try on your perfume in the house, allowing yourself enough time to shower if the scent bothers you.

Your decision as to whether to wear perfume during your pregnancy is obviously up to you, and if you are in any doubt, it is best to talk to your doctor first. Also don’t hesitate to talk to us before you buy unique fragrances online from our extensive selection, as we are always happy to advise where possible on the suitability of certain perfumes in our range to be worn during pregnancy.