Is Oil of lemon eucalyptus / PMD repellent safe during pregnancy?
EPA-registered OLE/PMD repellents are listed by CDC as safe and effective for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
What the sources say
CDC lists oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) and para-menthane-diol (PMD) among EPA-registered active ingredients that are safe and effective even for pregnant and breastfeeding women; it advises not using OLE or PMD products on children under 3. MotherToBaby notes PMD has not been studied in human pregnancy, with low skin absorption expected when used as directed. Choose an EPA-registered product (look for an EPA Reg. No.), follow the label, and keep it off the nipple area while nursing.
Common alternatives
Also listed as
lemon eucalyptus repellent, oil of lemon eucalyptus, ole, p-menthane-3,8-diol, para-menthane-3,8-diol, para-menthane-diol, pmd, repel lemon eucalyptus
Sources
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.