1.
Alcohol - Although most people know this, it is important
to remember to avoid alcohol
during pregnancy. People used to believe that a drink
or two during pregnancy would not hurt the developing baby.
Alcohol consumption, especially during the first and second
trimester, can adversely affect fetal development and cause
long term birth defects, particularly Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.
No amount of alcohol has been determined to be safe during
pregnancy.
2.
Smoking - Along with avoiding alcohol, quitting smoking is
one of the best things you can do for your baby. Smoking has
been attributed to causing low birth weight, a factor in developing
conditions such as placenta
previa and placenta abruption, ectopic
pregnancy and miscarriage,
preterm
labor, and various other complications during pregnancy.
If you are having difficulty quitting smoking talk to your
doctor about it. They should be able to provide you with some
resources for quitting.
3.
Medications - There are many drugs that are safe and appropriate
to take during pregnancy if needed. However, it is essential
to speak with your doctor before taking any medication. Medications
such as tetracycline, certain anti-seizure medications, acne
medications are known to cause birth defects. Over the counter
medications may have associated risks as well. Always check
with your doctor before taking any medications during pregnancy.
4.
Use hot tubs or take really hot baths - Water temperature
should stay below 99° Fahrenheit. Hot tubs have been associated
with an increased risk of miscarriage. Hot tubs can raise
a woman's core body temperature, cause dehydration, and overheating
all of which can harm the developing baby. Bathing in itself
is fine, it's all about what temperature the water is.
5.
Touching cat litter - Handling cat litter can cause the disease
toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis can cause damage to the brain
and eyes. If you have a cat, have someone else do the litter
changes if possible. If not possible use clean gloves to change
the litter and wash your hands diligently.
6.
Fish - Not all fish needs to be avoided during pregnancy,
but some species of fish may be harmful to your developing
baby. The problem with eating fish is that fish may contain
contaminants such as mercury. The larger the fish and the
longer the fish's life cycle the greater the risk that the
fish has been exposed to contaminants that can pose a danger
to the growing fetus. Fish such as shark, swordfish, and king
mackerel should be avoided. There are however some fish that
are good for you and your baby. Oily fish, such as salmon
and trout, contain omega-3 fatty acids. Researchers have found
these types of fish have many health benefits including that
they may reduce the risk of your child developing asthma if
eaten during pregnancy.
7.
Pesticides and Paints - Pesticides and paints should be avoided
during pregnancy. Household paints such as latex paints pose
a relatively low risk to fetus, and there is some controversy
as to whether they need to be avoided. Commercial and aerosol
paints pose a greater concern. They contain solvents, resins,
and chemicals that may pose a risk to your baby. Pesticides
have been linked to neural tube defects, deformities of the
heart and limbs. If pesticides are needed in your home, have
someone else apply them and avoid the area for the recommended
time after use.
