Yes, there are risks to using unripe papaya on the skin during pregnancy. Unripe papaya contains latex and papain, both of which can be absorbed through the skin and may cause severe irritation or allergic reactions. For pregnant women, exposure to latex and papain—even topically—raises concerns because:
- Unripe papaya latex can cause skin irritation or allergic responses, especially in individuals sensitive to latex or papain.
- Latex and papain in unripe papaya are associated with triggering uterine contractions when ingested, and although topical use is less likely to cause systemic absorption, it is still discouraged due to possible local and systemic effects, including the potential for allergic reactions.
- Papain applied in larger amounts or to broken skin may be absorbed and has been linked to weakening of fetal membranes in animal studies, warranting extra caution during pregnancy.
- Unripe papaya use may aggravate or trigger latex allergies, resulting in symptoms from mild itching to severe respiratory distress in those sensitive.
Summary: Applying unripe papaya or its raw latex to the skin is not considered safe during pregnancy due to the potential for irritation, allergy, and theoretically increased risk of uterine contractions or fetal complications. Only ripe papaya, in food amounts, is considered safe for use in pregnancy.
