Your favorite sushi with a glass of wine on the side. A dip in a steaming hot bath at the end of a particularly stressful day. There are a lot of things that you expect to change when you become pregnant, but there are also quite a few that you may not have contemplated before. Of course, you would do anything to keep your little one safe, but the list of dos and don’ts throughout pregnancy can be overwhelming. More than once, you’ll likely find yourself turning to Google, asking, “Is this safe?”
You’ll no doubt find a flurry of answers across the web for every minute concern. But, if it’s the big no-nos you’re looking for, here is our list of the top eight:
Don’t Eat These Foods
By far, the lengthiest list of things pregnant women should avoid comes from food. Largely due to risk of contamination from salmonella or listeria, there are quite a few foods you may have enjoyed pre-pregnancy that are best avoided now. These include:
- Raw meat and shellfish
- Smoked seafood
- Deli meat
- Raw Eggs
- Fish high in mercury
- Unpasteurized dairy products
- Soft cheeses
Don’t do the Painting Yourself
You may have heard that only oil-based paints need be avoided, but the evidence regarding chemicals in all forms of paint is still unclear. In the end, your safest bet is to pass this task on to your partner, a friend, or even a professional.
Don’t Take Medications without Checking with Your Doctor
There are many over-the-counter medications that may be lining your medicine cabinet this very moment which your physician would deem too risky to take during pregnancy. These can include common pain relievers, cold and allergy medications, and even Pepto Bismol. The bottom line here is to never assume any medication is safe for you and baby until you hear your OB say so.
Don’t Clean the Litter Box
Finally, something you don’t mind giving up! Next time the kitty litter needs freshening up, you can tell your partner that due to the risk of a parasitic disease known as toxoplasmosis this chore is against doctor’s orders.
Don’t Light Up
This one may seem obvious to some, but studies reveal that as many as 12-20 percent of pregnant women smoke. Not only is the habit bad for mom, but it can also contribute to miscarriage, premature birth, and low birth weight. Even second hand smoke should be off-limits to expectant mothers.
Don’t Drink Too Much Coffee
Moderate consumption of around 150 -300 mg of caffeine per day is safe. But, coffee junkies may have to sacrifice, as too much can affect blood pressure and heart rate while also crossing the placenta to baby.
Don’t Drink Alcohol
You’ve probably heard that a glass of wine or a beer here or there is safe, but there is no evidence to support this. In fact, fetal alcohol syndrome has not been linked with any specific amount of alcohol which is why it is best to avoid drinking entirely.
Don’t Lounge in the Hot Tub
Any activity or environment that raises your body temperature significantly should be avoided. This is particularly true during the first trimester when elevated temperatures can result in certain birth defects.
While it may seem that nearly everything is off limits during your pregnancy, there is plenty that you can still enjoy. Just ensure that you’re taking precautions to avoid the foods or activities that could cause potential harm to you or your baby, and when in doubt, ask for your physician’s advice. Before you know it, you’ll have a new baby to love and a hot bath to enjoy!
If you have recently discovered that you are pregnant or are trying to become pregnant, contact Bayou Regional Women’s Clinic to set up a consultation. Our physicians can elaborate on the points above, as well as fill in the blanks on any other concerns you may have while also providing exceptional care.
6550 Main Street
Suite 2000
(225) 658-1303
