The Top 14 Things NOT TO DO When You’re Pregnant
Many women are very excited about becoming pregnant, but that excitement can turn to stress or even panic when they become aware of what’s not to do when they’re pregnant. Many of the things that are restricting for non-pregnant people are perfectly healthy during pregnancy. It all becomes a matter of perspective.
Here, we’ve compiled a list of common-sense precautions for expectant mothers during their pregnancy just in case they need an extra nudge on how best to protect themselves and the life inside them!
Do Not Smoke
Although some women manage to give this up during their pregnancy, it can be extremely difficult and is not recommended. Smoking cigarettes and/or marijuana while pregnant can cause damage to your baby’s development and increase the chance of miscarriage or stillbirth. Smoking can also cause preterm labor and increase the risk of SIDS.
Do Not Drink Alcohol
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that pregnant women should avoid alcohol because of the risk it poses to the health of both mother as well as the baby. The symptoms can be subtle, such a facial swelling or an unusual behavior pattern due to lack of oxygen during pregnancy- which may not show up until later on down your child’s life
A lot has been written about why people might choose to drink despite this knowledge – some feel they need something comforting after being through tough times; others enjoy drinking at parties where no other beverages are offered (or only beer). But all things considered, it’s better safe than sorry: Pregnant ladies shouldn’t touch ethanol with their unborn children hanging around either!
Do Not Take Recreational Drugs
Many recreational drugs are illegal in many countries. But pregnant women should not take any drugs unless they have been prescribed by their doctor. Certain prescription medications may be necessary for a woman while she is expecting that can potentially harm or negatively affect the fetus.
Do Not Get Any Tattoos or Piercings
Some of these may be safe to get but are not recommended for pregnant women. And some are downright dangerous! Pregnancy hormones can cause increased bruising and bleeding, making the risk of infection higher. It’s best to wait until after you have given birth to get inked or pierced.
Do Not Go on a Diet
Some pregnant women find they are putting on more weight than they want throughout their pregnancy. But drastic measures like diets can endanger mothers and unborn babies. The best thing to do is eat healthily and exercise moderately while you’re expecting!
Do Not Ignore Your Medications
Some medications can be harmful to the fetus and must be discontinued, but others should only be stopped under a doctor’s supervision. If you’ve been prescribed medication by your doctor, do not stop taking it unless advised to do so. And always inform your doctor if you are on any other medications or supplements that may require discontinuing during pregnancy.
Do Not Ignore Your Symptoms
A common fear among pregnant women is that something might be wrong with the baby. But as long as you are seeing your doctor for regular checkups and ultrasounds, you will know if anything isn’t right. If something does seem off, however, take note of your symptoms and inform your doctor immediately!
Do Not Ignore Your Body
It may be a good idea to inform your doctor if you’re experiencing anything out of the ordinary with your body, such as excessive vomiting or bleeding. For example, in rare cases, some pregnant women develop melanoma, a form of skin cancer that can also affect unborn babies.
Do Not Perform Strenuous Activities
Yes, exercise is extremely important for pregnant women. But certain activities should be avoided during pregnancy because of the potential danger they pose to mother and child. Although some women have danced throughout their pregnancies, this can be problematic if you don’t dance well or have a physical condition that prevents you from doing so. On the other hand, there are plenty of pregnancy-safe exercises you can engage in during pregnancy.
Do Not Be a Fitness Food Hoarder
Your body is going through a lot – more than it ever has before! Exercise and good food choices are key to a healthy pregnancy. But be careful not to take this too far. Your body cannot handle excessive amounts of vitamins, minerals, and other supplements when pregnant, so stick to the essentials. And avoid fad diets that promote an abnormal intake of one or more food groups, as this can pose risks to you and your baby!
Do Not Ignore Parenting Classes
Before you go home with your bundle of joy, be sure to take as many parenting classes as possible! You can learn a lot about different ways to care for and bond with your newborn – and feel better prepared for the real thing. Prenatal classes are great for first-time mothers who may not know what to expect!
Do Not Skimp out on Sleep
Sleep is the best way to recharge your body and soul. Try getting at least seven hours every night, even on weekends! Not sleeping enough will make you more irritable with everyone around; it’s just not worth it during pregnancy when there are so many other important things going on – like being an awesome new parent for example.
Do Not Skip Your Checkups
To provide the best care and ensure your safety, you must continue visiting a gynecologist throughout pregnancy. These doctors can help monitor any signs of trouble during this time in preparation for an emergency such as complications related to deliveries or even preterm labor onset which could lead ultimately leading up towards c-section delivery if necessary!
Do Not Eat Raw Meat
When expecting, women should avoid eating raw meat because of the risk of listeriosis, which is dangerous for both the mother and fetus. It can cause fever, headache, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and backache in a pregnant woman. If you’re going to be making your food while expecting, make sure everything is cooked through!
Final Words
The 14 things not to do when pregnant may seem like common sense, but it’s important to remember that each woman is different.
If you’re experiencing anything out of the ordinary with your body or symptoms, talk to your doctor and tell them what you’ve been doing (or not doing) before making any decisions on how to proceed.
It can be difficult balancing all these new changes in life as a first-time mother; don’t forget about yourself! Take some time for self-care by eating healthy meals regularly and getting enough sleep every night – this will help keep both mom and baby happy during pregnancy.
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Until our next post.
