9 Things You Should Not Do While Pregnant

Firstly, Congratulations on being Pregnant! This is an extremely vulnerable time for your body and that of your developing fetus. Although you can go on doing most things you do regularly, you have to take extra care of yourself by avoiding sure others*.

1. Painting The Nursery

I know you’re super excited to get everything set for your baby, but painting is a big no-no. Paint, especially the kind that’s oil-based, is high in toxins that could harm you and your baby. Therefore, it is essential to reduce paint exposure as much as possible. Get someone else to do the task for you.

2. Cats!

Cat feces tend to contain a parasite that can cause toxoplasmosis, which could cause a miscarriage or blindness and brain impairment in the baby. Usual symptoms include the flu or mild fever; however, this can go undetected since pregnant women aren’t routinely screened for toxoplasmosis, making it extremely important to be precautious.

3. Drugs And Smoking (Or Even Second-Hand Smoke)

While both of these are undoubtedly dangerous to everyone, they can cause even more harm during pregnancy – to both the mother and the child. They may result in congenital abnormalities like clefts for the baby, or worst cases, stillbirths, and miscarriages.

4. Excess Caffeine

Large amounts of caffeine tend to stunt fetal growth and could result in low weight on delivery. This is because babies don’t have the enzymes to break down the substance causing it to accumulate in their bodies. Therefore, pregnant women are advised to limit the amount of caffeine they consume to 200mg per day (about 2 cups of coffee).

5. Alcohol

Pregnant women are banned from drinking alcohol in any manner. Even the smallest amount of alcohol has the potential to cause intellectual disabilities and severe brain damage to the child and could have a lasting impact throughout their life.

6. Contact Sports And Certain Exercises

Although doctors recommend essential exercise, it’s best to avoid activities such as heavy lifting and sports like rugby, where there is a high risk of falling for these could cause hernias and pulled muscles. Also, refrain from doing any abdominal exercises after the first trimester. It’s best to stick with long walks for your daily dose of fresh air.

7. Hot Tubs, Saunas And Overheating

Despite seeming to be the best way to get rid of anybody’s aches during your pregnancy, high body temperatures could result in dehydration and fainting. What’s worse is that it could mean that your baby may suffer from specific congenital disabilities.

8. Fake Tans And Hair Dye

Although usually harmless, a pregnant woman’s skin is said to be at least 20 times more sensitive. Therefore it’s best to avoid anything that could cause an infection or allergic reaction to your body. However, if you can surely find safer ways and take extra precautions by using minimal tan and using natural hair dye, that’s ok.

9. Don’t Believe Everything You Read! (Except This)

You can find all sorts of false facts and contradictory information in books and on the internet, so only check reliable sources(these include secure websites and those of reputed specialists). Lastly, trust your gut – your motherly instincts are kicking in! Better safe than sorry.

Luckily, you’re not on these restrictions forever, so help your baby while you can! Wish you a very healthy and happy pregnancy, good luck!

There are no specific rules about what to do while being pregnant. However, these tips will help you keep as healthy as possible.