Worried - used paint and paint thinner early pregnancy.

Kirstie70

After researching online im quite worried about the activities I was doing before I got my bfp.

I tested early on Saturday and period is due Thursday.

On Friday and Saturday I painted all day and used paint thinner on my hands to get paint off and to clean my brushes.

Later that night I took a test (frer) and it was positive. I've then researched paint and paint thinner in early pregnancy and now im so scared.

I had a MC In sept and have been trying to avoid everything that could be harmful. I wasn't aware of the potential problems painting could bring if I was pregnant.

I am 4 weeks on Thursday.

Do you think I should be worried? I am trying to gain reassurance that i was so early but from what I've read the risk of harm is greatest in the first few weeks.

Can anyone reassure me?

Upsidedown_Bear

I don't know if you've already seen this:
http://www.nhs.uk/chq/Pages/2531.aspx?CategoryID=54#close

Speak to your doctor/midwife if you're worried - they are best placed to advise you.

And congratulations :)

lessonlearned

I'm no expert but I would think that one weekend shouldn't pose a high risk. I think the risk would be more likely in longer term exposure, ie if you were a full time decorator or artist using mainly oil or solvent based paints.

I know you used thinners on your hands but I'm sure you would have washed them thoroughly immediately afterwards if only to get rid of the smell.

Like you I had had a previous miscarriage. When I got pregnant again it took me several weeks to realise. During those first few weeks I went to a couple of Christmas parties where I drank both wine and spirits and like you was Exposed to paint fumes.

Of course as soon as I knew I was pregnant I didn't drink any more alcohol and didn't do any more painting until about the 6 month mark.

My baby was just fine, perfect in fact.

I don't know what tests they can do these days - my son is now 31.

I would suggest you have a word with your healthcare team. After your previous miscarriage I am sure they will be monitoring you very carefully so they might suggest an early scan anyway.

Congratulations and the very best of luck.

MandM90

When I was pregnant with DD I went on roller coasters and drank heavily before I found out (at four months!). I too was worried sick but she's now a healthy 7 year old.

There is absolutely no point worrying about this. If you can't get it out of your head speak to a midwife, who I'm sure will reassure you.