art classes during pregnancy--are painting materials safe?

[Anonymous]

Hello, I signed up for a painting class but am concerned that some of the materials used in the class may be dangerous for pregnanct women. I did a quick web search but did not find any authoritative resources on this... any suggestions of places to look? I will be using acryllic paints and gouache. Some students might use oil paints. The room is large and seems well-ventilated. Turpentine is prohibited.

[Anonymous]

I would ask your doctor. I think it depends on the content of the paint. My doctor told me that it was fine for me to paint the nursey as long as I used water or latex based paint, but that I should check with her if I was going to do stenciling with other types of paint if they weren't water or latex based. I bet if you called, your doctor could give you a quick answer. That's what they are there for.

[Anonymous]

Try the Art and Creative Materials Institute at www.acminet.org. They have info about the safety of arts materials for children so may have something for preggos too. Good luck.

[Anonymous]

Hi, OP here. I checked with my doctor, who said latex paints are fine in well-ventilated areas. but if I feel dizzy or sick, leave the classroom immediately!