An Overview of Zinc Oxide and Pregnancy
Zinc oxide is an active ingredient in various skin creams and ointments (such as
diaper rash products and sunscreens). Some
dietary supplements also contain zinc oxide (as a source of zinc). An appropriate use of such products is probably safe for most pregnant women.
What Is a Reasonable Dosage?
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for zinc for pregnant women is 12 mg daily (age 14 to 18 years old) or 11 mg daily (age 19 years and older). The maximum amount of zinc (from any source) that a pregnant woman can safely take is 34 mg daily (age 14 to 18 years old) or 40 mg daily (age 19 years and older). Most
prenatal vitamins contain plenty of zinc for most pregnant women.
Some dietary supplements use zinc oxide to provide zinc. This is fine, as long as you make sure not to exceed the maximum recommended dose for zinc.
There is no reason to believe that a reasonable use of zinc oxide skin products would not be safe for pregnant women. Such products are generally used over small areas of the body and for only a short period of time. It is a good idea to check with your healthcare provider before using such products over a large area of the body or for a prolonged period of time.
Zinc oxide products are probably safe for use during pregnancy, especially if used appropriately. However, it is always a good idea to check with your healthcare provider before using any medication during pregnancy, no matter how safe it seems.
