Poison Ivy & Pregnancy: Is it Harmful?

Question
Hi my name is Amanda i am 17 years old, i am currently 2 months pregnant and my boyfriend has poison ivy is this harmful to me, is it fatal to the baby?

Answer
Poison Ivy is not harmful to the pregnancy or to the baby. However, it would be quite annoying if you contracted it from your boyfriend. It can only be transmitted through direct contact (skin to skin). I would suggest that you avoid contact until the lesions are gone. He should be treated with Lidex cream (or similar). If you do get Poison Ivy, there are some medications that are allowed to be used during pregnancy. Check with your doctor. You do not have to be treated unless you actually get the Poison Ivy.