Individuals use candles for relaxation and to create a pleasant atmosphere. For pregnant individuals, however, lighting a candle raises questions about the safety of inhaled substances for both the mother and the developing fetus. The perceived safety of a candle is often mistakenly linked only to the type of wax used. Exposure to airborne chemicals is determined by the wax base, added ingredients, and the quality of the air in the room.
Assessing Soy Wax Versus Paraffin
Soy candles are popular due to the perception that they are safer than traditional paraffin wax options. Soy wax is a vegetable-based product derived from soybean oil, making it a natural, renewable resource. Paraffin wax, by contrast, is a byproduct of petroleum refining and is a non-renewable, fossil fuel-based substance.
The primary difference is in the burn quality and emissions. Soy wax burns cleaner than paraffin, producing less soot and fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Paraffin has the potential to release VOCs like benzene and toluene, which are known environmental contaminants. However, the wax itself is rarely the source of the most concerning health risks.
Hidden Risks in Fragrance and Additives
Despite the cleaner burn of the soy wax base, the greatest chemical concern in many scented candles comes from synthetic fragrance oils. These synthetic scents often contain phthalates, a class of chemicals used to help the fragrance last longer and diffuse more effectively. Phthalates are recognized as endocrine-disrupting chemicals that interfere with the body’s hormone system.
During pregnancy, this hormonal disruption is particularly concerning because the endocrine system regulates fetal development and maternal health. Exposure to these chemicals has been linked to potential reproductive and developmental issues in children. Manufacturers are not required to disclose the specific chemical composition of a fragrance blend, often listing only “fragrance” on the label.
Even when a candle is scented with essential oils rather than synthetic fragrance, caution is necessary during pregnancy. Some concentrated essential oils can act as uterine stimulants or have other effects that are best avoided. Oils such as clary sage, rosemary, and cinnamon are often contraindicated for use during pregnancy, especially in high concentrations. The heat from a burning candle can also alter the chemical structure of essential oils, potentially creating new, irritating compounds in the air.
Understanding Indoor Air Quality and Particulate Matter
Beyond the chemical composition of the wax and fragrance, the physical process of burning a candle affects indoor air quality. All combustion, whether from a paraffin or soy candle, produces fine particulate matter, commonly referred to as soot. These microscopic particles (PM2.5) are small enough to be inhaled deep into the lungs and can even enter the bloodstream.
Exposure to particulate matter is a greater concern during pregnancy because pregnant individuals take deeper and more frequent breaths, leading to increased inhalation of airborne particles. High exposure to air pollution has been linked to an increased risk of certain complications.
The amount of particulate matter produced is influenced by factors beyond the wax type, such as the wick material and the flame size. A larger, flickering flame or a contaminated wick can generate significantly more soot. In an enclosed space, the concentration of these combustion byproducts, including trace amounts of VOCs, can quickly accumulate, making ventilation a key factor in mitigating risk.
Safe Usage Guidelines During Pregnancy
To minimize potential risks, pregnant individuals should prioritize unscented candles or those explicitly labeled as “phthalate-free” and made with safe fragrance ingredients. Verifying the wick material is also important; wicks with metal cores, which may contain lead, should be avoided, and wicks made from 100% cotton or wood are preferred.
Proper ventilation is necessary whenever a candle is burned indoors, regardless of the wax type. Burning a candle in a well-ventilated area, such as a room with an open window, helps to disperse and reduce the concentration of emitted particulates and chemicals. It is also advisable to limit the duration of burning, avoiding continuous use for many hours.
For those who rely on scent for relaxation, safer alternatives to combustion candles exist, such as high-quality electric diffusers using pregnancy-safe essential oils. These devices disperse scent without producing soot or the high heat that can alter chemicals. Ultimately, reducing overall exposure to unnecessary airborne contaminants is the most prudent approach during this time.