Cr*p! I just used Betadine

[Willow]

I have an open sore on my scalp (gross, I know) and was worried about it getting infected while I am prg so went to the chemist today to get some betadine to help clear it up and prevent infection.

I'd done one application (and admittedly most of it ended up in my hair) but about 20 mins after applying it, I read the box which said it shouldn't be used during prg

I immediately washed it off as best I could - I shouldn't panic too much right? I don't think there's anything else I can do It is a small area (about the size of a 5c piece) and was only on for about 20-30 mins before I washed it off.

I am very obviously pregnant, you'd think the stoopid people in the chemist would have said something, but then again I should have read the the information on the back too

I had NO idea you couldn't use it, I thought it was pretty harmless stuff!

[Nadine216]

Personally ... I don't think you should worry.
And don't blame the chemist He might have thought it was for your husband/child/mother/employee , kwim?

If it makes you feel better, I would have use Betadine during pg too, I would NEVER have read the leaflet

[Junglemum]

i had no idea either. I used it during both pregnancies. I wonder why they recommend not using it? It might be simply that there hasn't been a study done prooving it is safe..... not sure, but i wouldn't be too concerned.

[Muppity]

I'm pretty sure that the amount that you have used won't cause any issues at all - if, on the other hand, you were drinking it then we have a problem (actually we have two problems but that is another issue )

Try a bit of salty water instead - it should be just as effective at keeping it clean and infection free.

[*Ang*]

Oops I have also used betadine in this pregnancy - in fact only a couple of weeks ago and the chemist also recommended it too!

[Junglemum]

Hmmmm, seems to be category D, best avoided!

I would use tea tree oil Willow.

[Willow]

Ange - Something about the idodine passing through the placental wall

Makes sense I guess but I would never have thought to question it. I'm not going to stress too much about a single application, but wish I hadn't spent $11 on it for nothing!

For those that may be reading, you're not supposed to use it whilst b'feeding either. Same reason, the idodine can pass into breastmilk.

Can anyone suggest something else to help heal a small wound?

ETA: Muppity- snap, was just thinking the same thing