Hey there! As someone who specializes in teratogen information, I’ve often been asked all sorts of questions about what’s safe during pregnancy, from hair dye to drug use. But I never expected to get so many inquiries about the effects of tear gas and pepper spray during this time of protests across the U.S. It’s a unique situation, to say the least.
Even if pregnant women aren’t actively participating in protests, we have to remember that nearly half of all pregnancies in the U.S. are unplanned. This means some women might not even realize they’re pregnant when they’re exposed to these substances. So, what should you know?
Tear Gas
Tear gas contains various chemicals that can cause eye tearing, skin irritation, and respiratory issues. One common component is 2-chlorobenzalmalononitrile (CS gas). Typically, every woman has a baseline risk of about 3-5% of having a baby with a birth defect. So far, there isn’t enough evidence to suggest that exposure to CS gas increases this risk significantly. Reports indicate no major rises in miscarriage or birth defects from such exposure.
Pepper Spray
The active ingredient in pepper spray is capsaicin, derived from chili peppers. Like tear gas, exposure can lead to eye and skin irritation, coughing, and breathing difficulties. The research indicates that capsaicin is not likely to elevate the risk of birth defects beyond the background rate. If you’re curious, you can find more details in our fact sheet on capsaicin.
The CDC provides further insights on riot control agents, including prevention tips and what to do if you’re exposed.
Trauma & Stress
Physical trauma, whether from violence or accidents, can be concerning during pregnancy. Reports of varying outcomes exist, depending on the trauma’s nature and severity. Psychological trauma, like the mental stress from these events, can also affect health. While short-term stress is normal, chronic stress can lead to complications like high blood pressure or depression, so it’s wise to talk to a healthcare provider if it becomes overwhelming.
Given the current climate, it’s crucial to practice social distancing to reduce the risk of COVID-19 during gatherings. For up-to-date information, the CDC is an excellent resource for pregnancy-related guidance.
In these challenging times, if you have any questions, we’re here to help!
Summary
This blog explores the concerns surrounding tear gas and pepper spray exposure during pregnancy amid protests. It covers the risks associated with these substances, trauma, stress, and the importance of seeking information from reliable sources like the CDC.