Protecting Yourself from Ticks During Pregnancy: Prevention Tips

Here are some tips to avoid ticks when pregnant:

- Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and pants when in areas where ticks are present. Tuck your pants into your socks.

- Wear shoes that cover your entire foot.

- Use insect repellent that contains DEET or picaridin on your skin and clothes.

- Stay on cleared trails when hiking.

- Avoid walking through tall grass or weeds.

- Keep your lawn and garden mowed and remove leaf litter.

- Check yourself, your children, and your pets for ticks after spending time outdoors.

- If you find a tick, remove it promptly and carefully with a pair of tweezers.

- Wash your hands after removing a tick.

- Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about ticks.

Additional Tips:

- Wear a hat when outdoors.

- Tuck your hair into your shirt or hat.

- Inspect your clothing and body regularly for ticks.

- Avoid sitting on logs or rocks in wooded areas.

- Use permethrin-treated clothing.

- Be aware of the times of day when ticks are most active (generally dawn and dusk).

- Avoid picking up or handling dead animals.