Hi there we are currently getting our entire house painted, and I’m 9 weeks pregnant. I’m not painting myself and am outside from 7:00am till around 4:00pm while the painting is happening. Most of paints are water based and low in voc however the primer is oil base but still low in voc. The painters also have turpentine (no idea what they are using it for) is this bad for my baby if I am breathing this in during the night? I do air out the house the best I can but of course I can still smell it
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service.I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.First of all, do not panic.There is no such scientific data available about the chemicals in the paints used and its effect on the baby.I agree that volatile compounds in the paints are quite irritating to eyes and nose. And can lead to allergic or reactive inflammation of eyes and nose.But, I will suggest you to avoid the rooms which emits fumes or stay away at other place for 7 to 10 days. Keeping windows open will help to wash away volatile compounds and its effects. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.Regards,Dr. Purushottam Neurgaonkar