She Strengthens

Protecting Your Pregnancy: Essential Dos and Don’ts

As an expectant mother, it’s natural to have questions about what you can and can’t do during pregnancy. To ensure a safe and healthy journey, it’s crucial to be aware of the activities, foods, and substances that can pose risks to you and your baby. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the dos and don’ts of pregnancy.

Food Restrictions

While your diet will remain largely unchanged, there are certain foods to avoid due to the risk of foodborne illnesses and other complications. Steer clear of:

• Unpasteurized milks and cheeses, which can contain Listeria
• Deli meats, which can carry Listeria
• Undercooked beef, which can lead to coliform bacteria, toxoplasmosis, and salmonella
• Raw eggs, which can contain Listeria
• Sushi and undercooked seafood, which can harbor bacteria and parasites
• Fish high in mercury or pollutants, which can impact your health and your baby’s development

Drinks to Avoid

Some beverages can harm your baby or increase the risk of complications. Limit or avoid:

• Alcohol, which can cause fetal alcohol syndrome
• Excessive caffeine, which can lead to miscarriage and other issues
• Energy drinks, which contain high levels of caffeine and other stimulants

Activities to Avoid

Certain activities can pose risks to your health and your baby’s well-being. Steer clear of:

• Smoking and secondhand smoke, which can harm your baby
• Illicit drugs, which can cause severe harm to your baby
• Tattoos and piercings, which can increase the risk of infections
• Flying in your third trimester, which can pose risks during labor
• Hot tubs and saunas, which can cause fetal development issues and miscarriage
• Amusement park rides, which can be dangerous for you and your baby
• Heavy lifting, which can cause injury and complications
• Rigorous exercise you’re not used to, which can increase the risk of injury and complications
• Certain essential oils, which may not be safe for use during pregnancy

Medications to Avoid

Some medications can harm your baby or increase the risk of complications. Always consult your doctor or midwife before taking any medication, and avoid:

• Over-the-counter pain meds like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen
• Cough and cold medicines with guaifenesin
• Pepto-Bismol
• Nyquil
• Decongestants like phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine
• Prescription medications like retinoid acne medications, doxycycline, warfarin, and others

Beauty and Skincare

While you may need to adjust your beauty routine, some products and procedures can pose risks to your baby. Avoid:

• Tanning beds and self-tanner, which can increase the risk of skin cancer and fetal development issues
• Certain skincare ingredients like hydroxy acids, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide
• Botox and cosmetic surgery, which can pose risks to your health and your baby’s development

Chores and Household Tasks

Some household tasks can pose risks to your health and your baby’s well-being. Take precautions when:

• Using toxic cleaning supplies, and make sure to ventilate the area and wear gloves
• Gardening, which can expose you to toxoplasmosis; wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly afterward
• Painting, which can pose risks to your baby’s development; let someone else paint the nursery if possible
• Changing the kitty litter, which can expose you to toxoplasmosis; use gloves and wash your hands thoroughly afterward

By following these guidelines, you can minimize risks and ensure a healthy pregnancy. Remember to always consult your doctor or midwife if you have any questions or concerns.