Things to avoid during pregnancy | Pregnancy guide

Common Things to avoid during pregnancy

When you become pregnant, every body becomes expert and gives you advice on small steps such as wearing yoga pants or dying your hair or something else. They are just trying to be supportive, nothing else, but the fact is, ‘most things you can do before you are pregnant can also be done when you are pregnant. However, when you are pregnant and breastfeeding, you should certainly step up or avoid some activities for your own and your child’s safety. Here are the major five things a pregnant lady should not do.

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1. Don’t eat or drink these food items:

You shouldn’t eat some foods when you’re pregnant because they could hurt you or your baby. Be careful about the food you eat because certain foods are considered toxins during pregnancy. Freshly cooked or freshly made food is the best food to consume. Foods such as soft cheese, raw or undercooked egg or meat, sushi, unpasteurized milk, and so on, contain Listeria, a toxic bacterium responsible for miscarriage or illness in the baby. Also, avoid excessive intake of peanuts as it can be allergic to baby. Besides, packaged foods or too much sugary food can shoot up blood pressure or insulin, which will be detrimental for your well being.

Moreover, the risk of miscarriage, low birth weight, and difficult birth can increase by a high level of caffeine. Many foods, such as tea, coffee, chocolates, energy drinks, and soft drinks, contain caffeine. Also, some cold and flu medicines have caffeine. So, make sure you don’t increase caffeine intake more than 300mg per day, as it could be risky for your unborn baby.

2. Avoid using hot tubs and saunas:

You can find it appropriate to relax in a hot tub or take saunas when you experience pain and discomfort during pregnancy. However, this could be risky because when you spend more time in hot tubs or saunas, your body temperature can increase over 101. This is especially risky during the first half of your pregnancy, as it increases the chances of miscarriage.

Thus, to your pain or to feel relax, pregnant ladies should take a warm tub and use hot and cold compresses instead of hot tubs or saunas.

3. Don’t smoke or drink:

There is no lower limit for alcohol or tobacco consumption because a small amount could be dangerous for the baby. The risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome increases due to prenatal exposure to smoking and alcohol. When the mother drinks alcohol, it crosses the placenta and reaches the growing fetus. Since a developing baby’s body breaks alcohol much slower than an adult, fetal blood alcohol can increase much more than his mother’s level and remain longer than his mother’s. This leads to damage that can be long-term and severe, from mental delay to heart damage.

The same way, smoking is hugely detrimental to you and your baby. Nicotine, carbon monoxide, and many other cigarette-inhaled poisons pass through your bloodstream and go directly to your baby. Even passive smoking during pregnancy can lead to a miscarriage of low birth weight, early birth, or behavioral problems when your baby grows. The reason for this is the second-hand smoke is the combination of cigarette smoke with smoke excreted by smokers. The cigarette smoke typically contains more toxic substances (tar, carbon monoxide, nicotine, etc.) than the smoker inhaled smoke. This is why second-hand smoke is more dangerous.

4. Don’t clean cat litters:

During pregnancy, if you clean kitty’s litter, chances of toxoplasmosis increase because cat litter/poop has parasites responsible for such infection. The T. Gondii parasite can reach to your fetus and cause complications, including mental retardation, blindness, and epilepsy. Albeit very rare, the infection will transfer to, and affect the unborn child even if you come in contact with cat feces a few months before you get pregnant. So, be careful when you are pregnant or planning for pregnancy.

Wear gloves, masks and wash your hands thoroughly afterward if you have to change kitty’s litter.

5. Avoid paints and hair dye:

The danger of fumes from modern household paints or hair dyes that hurt your baby is small, but you cannot know how little the risk is. Because the substances and chemicals that your body absorbs during activities like painting or hair dying are very difficult to measure. Chemicals in hair dye are minimal nowadays; however, it depends on company to company; thus, it is better to avoid hair colors during pregnancy.

Home renovation will increase the lead. Also, lead-based paints can spread lead pollution in the air and in the house, which can be harmful to the baby. When your baby organ starts to grow, any slight risk to the baby is the highest in your first half. At this point, harmful smoke or chemicals could more seriously affect your kid. As a precaution, painting and decoration should be avoided until the 14th week of your pregnancy.

Foods to avoid during pregnancy

During pregnancy, it is important to pay close attention to your diet as it directly impacts the health and development of the growing baby. While most foods are safe to consume during pregnancy, there are some foods that are best avoided or consumed with caution due to potential risks. Here are some examples:

1. High-mercury fish: Fish that are high in mercury, such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish, should be avoided during pregnancy as high levels of mercury can harm the baby’s developing nervous system.
2. Raw or undercooked seafood, eggs, and meat: Raw or undercooked seafood, eggs, and meat can carry harmful bacteria such as salmonella or listeria, which can cause foodborne illnesses that can harm both the mother and the baby. It’s important to ensure that all seafood, eggs, and meat are thoroughly cooked to safe temperatures.
3. Soft cheeses and unpasteurized dairy products: Soft cheeses like brie, camembert, and blue cheese, as well as unpasteurized dairy products, may contain harmful bacteria such as listeria, which can pose a risk to the developing baby. It’s best to choose pasteurized dairy products during pregnancy.
4. High-caffeine beverages: High-caffeine beverages like coffee, tea, and energy drinks should be consumed in moderation during pregnancy, as excessive caffeine intake has been associated with an increased risk of miscarriage and low birth weight. It’s recommended to limit caffeine intake to no more than 200 milligrams per day during pregnancy.
5. Raw or undercooked sprouts: Raw or undercooked sprouts, such as alfalfa, clover, mung bean, and radish sprouts, can carry harmful bacteria and should be avoided during pregnancy due to the risk of foodborne illnesses.
6. Processed or high-sugar foods: Foods that are high in added sugars or processed, such as candies, cakes, cookies, and sodas, should be consumed in moderation during pregnancy. These foods can contribute to excessive weight gain and increase the risk of gestational diabetes.
7. Excessive vitamin A-rich foods: While vitamin A is essential for fetal development, excessive intake of vitamin A-rich foods, such as liver and liver products, can be harmful during pregnancy as it has been linked to birth defects. It’s best to avoid consuming excessive amounts of vitamin A during pregnancy.

It’s always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice during pregnancy to ensure a healthy and safe diet for you and your baby.

Things to avoid during early pregnancy

During early pregnancy, it’s important to be mindful of certain things to help ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the developing baby. Here are some things to avoid during early pregnancy:

1. Alcohol: It’s crucial to avoid alcohol completely during early pregnancy, as it can harm the developing baby’s brain and cause birth defects. There is no safe level of alcohol consumption during pregnancy, so it’s best to abstain from alcohol entirely.
2. Smoking and secondhand smoke: Smoking during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of premature birth, low birth weight, birth defects, and other health issues. Exposure to secondhand smoke can also be harmful, so it’s important to avoid being around smokers during early pregnancy.
3. Certain medications and herbal supplements: Some medications and herbal supplements can pose a risk to the developing baby during early pregnancy. It’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medications or herbal supplements to ensure their safety during pregnancy.
4. High-caffeine beverages: High levels of caffeine can increase the risk of miscarriage and low birth weight. It’s recommended to limit caffeine intake to no more than 200 milligrams per day during early pregnancy. Be cautious with coffee, tea, energy drinks, and other caffeinated beverages.
5. Raw or undercooked seafood, eggs, and meat: Raw or undercooked seafood, eggs, and meat can carry harmful bacteria such as salmonella or listeria, which can cause foodborne illnesses that can harm both the mother and the baby. It’s important to ensure that all seafood, eggs, and meat are thoroughly cooked to safe temperatures during early pregnancy.
6. Environmental toxins: Exposure to environmental toxins, such as lead, pesticides, and certain chemicals, can pose a risk to the developing baby during early pregnancy. It’s important to be cautious and avoid known environmental toxins as much as possible.
7. Stress and excessive workload: High levels of stress and excessive workload during early pregnancy can have negative impacts on both the mother and the baby. It’s important to manage stress levels and avoid taking on excessive workload to prioritize the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby.
8. Hot tubs, saunas, and excessive heat: Exposure to excessive heat, such as hot tubs, saunas, and high fever, especially during the first trimester, can increase the risk of birth defects. It’s best to avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures during early pregnancy.

It’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice on what to avoid during early pregnancy, as individual circumstances may vary. Following a healthy lifestyle and avoiding potential risks can contribute to a safe and healthy pregnancy.

Things to avoid during post pregnancy

During the postpartum period, also known as the post-pregnancy or postpartum recovery period, it’s important for new mothers to take care of their physical and emotional well-being. Here are some things to avoid during post pregnancy:

1. Overexertion: It’s essential to avoid overexertion and excessive physical activity during the postpartum period, as the body needs time to recover from childbirth. Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and other activities that may strain the body, especially if you have had a cesarean section (C-section) or experienced complications during childbirth.
2. Ignoring signs of postpartum complications: Postpartum complications, such as infection, bleeding, or mood disorders like postpartum depression or anxiety, can occur during the postpartum period. It’s crucial to pay attention to any signs of complications, such as fever, severe pain, heavy bleeding, or changes in mood, and seek medical attention promptly if needed.
3. Neglecting self-care: Taking care of yourself, both physically and emotionally, is essential during the postpartum period. Avoid neglecting self-care, such as getting enough rest, eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and managing stress. Taking time for self-care can help promote a faster recovery and overall well-being.
4. Skipping postpartum follow-up appointments: Postpartum follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are crucial for monitoring your recovery and addressing any concerns or complications. Avoid skipping or delaying these appointments, as they are an important part of post-pregnancy care.
5. Neglecting mental health: Postpartum mood disorders, such as postpartum depression or anxiety, can affect new mothers. It’s important to prioritize your mental health and seek help if you experience persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or mood swings during the postpartum period.
6. Ignoring pelvic floor health: Childbirth can strain the pelvic floor muscles, which are responsible for supporting the bladder, uterus, and bowel. It’s important to avoid neglecting pelvic floor health during the postpartum period and engage in pelvic floor exercises as recommended by your healthcare provider.
7. Skipping contraception: If you do not wish to become pregnant again soon after giving birth, it’s important to use contraception consistently and effectively. Avoid skipping or neglecting contraception, and discuss birth control options with your healthcare provider to determine the best method for you.
8. Isolating yourself: The postpartum period can be challenging, and it’s important to avoid isolating yourself. Reach out to your support system, such as your partner, family, and friends, for emotional support, and consider joining a postpartum support group or seeking professional help if needed.

It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice on post-pregnancy care and recovery. Following a healthy postpartum routine and prioritizing self-care can contribute to a smoother recovery and better overall well-being for new mothers.

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Household activities to avoid during pregnancy

During pregnancy, it’s important to be mindful of certain household activities that may pose a risk to the health and well-being of both the mother and the developing baby. Here are some household activities to avoid during pregnancy:

1. Heavy lifting: Avoid lifting heavy objects, such as heavy furniture or appliances, as it can strain the muscles and potentially harm the developing baby. If lifting is necessary, use proper lifting techniques by bending your knees, keeping your back straight, and using your leg muscles to lift.
2. Chemical exposure: Avoid exposure to harmful chemicals, such as cleaning products, pesticides, and paints, as they may contain potentially harmful substances that can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled. Use natural or less toxic cleaning products, wear gloves and use good ventilation when using cleaning products, and avoid painting or being in a freshly painted room.
3. Hot tubs and saunas: Prolonged exposure to hot tubs, saunas, and excessive heat can raise the body temperature, which can be harmful to the developing baby. It’s best to avoid hot tubs, saunas, and other high-heat environments during pregnancy.
4. Crouching or squatting for long periods: Avoid prolonged periods of crouching or squatting, as it can strain the muscles and joints and potentially harm the developing baby. If you need to crouch or squat, take breaks and change positions regularly to avoid strain.
5. Excessive climbing or balancing: Avoid excessive climbing, balancing on ladders, or reaching for high objects, as it can increase the risk of falls and injuries during pregnancy. Falls can pose a serious risk to the developing baby, so it’s important to take precautions and avoid risky activities.
6. Exposure to lead or lead-based paints: Avoid exposure to lead or lead-based paints, which can be found in older homes or buildings. Lead exposure during pregnancy can harm the developing baby’s brain and nervous system. If you are living in an older home, make sure it is lead-free or take appropriate precautions to avoid lead exposure.
7. Handling cat litter or pet waste: Avoid handling cat litter or pet waste, as it may contain harmful bacteria, such as Toxoplasma, which can cause toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection that can be harmful to the developing baby. If you have a cat or other pets, have someone else take care of litter box duties or wear gloves and wash hands thoroughly after handling pet waste.
8. Standing for long periods: Avoid standing for long periods of time, as it can cause discomfort and potentially increase the risk of swelling and varicose veins during pregnancy. If you need to stand for extended periods, take frequent breaks, and wear supportive footwear.

It’s important to discuss any concerns or questions about household activities with your healthcare provider for personalized advice during pregnancy. Taking appropriate precautions and avoiding potentially risky household activities can help promote a healthy and safe pregnancy for both the mother and the baby.

To sum up…
Other than the things mentioned above, during pregnancy, one should maintain good oral hygiene, stay hydrated, take plenty of fluid, eat fresh foods only, and not take undue stress, stay happy, and sleep well. Maintaining your health is the best gift a mother can give to a child.

Pregnancy is the blessing with responsibility. You should take good care of yourself and your unborn baby by avoiding harmful foods and drinks, staying away from tobacco and alcohol, and keeping yourself away from the paint, hair dyes, cats, and saunas. Thus, these little precautions are needed during pregnancy.