From prosecco to paté, there are a few things you should steer clear of during pregnancy. But don’t worry, this doesn’t mean you have to banish all fun from your life! It’s simply about making informed choices to ensure the well-being of both you and your baby.
Foods to Avoid if You’re Pregnant
Certain foods could pose a small risk to you or your baby due to bacteria that might cause infections. These infections, although rare, can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or infections in your newborn. Here’s a brief overview:
- Soft and mould-ripened cheeses: Avoid brie, gorgonzola, and camembert. Feta and mozzarella are safe.
- Unpasteurised milk or cheese: Make sure all dairy products you consume are pasteurised.
- Raw or rare shellfish and meats: Also steer clear of cured meats like salami.
- Liver and liver products: These contain high levels of Vitamin A, which can cause birth defects.
- Certain fish: Avoid shark, swordfish, and marlin due to high mercury levels.
I have to confess, I once ate a million raw oysters while five months pregnant on holiday, completely missing the memo on shellfish. They were delicious, but let’s just say, not a recommended snack!
Thankfully, most of us aren’t regularly dining on shark or liver, so avoiding these isn’t usually too taxing. And there’s some silver lining: Stilton and runny eggs with the Lion quality mark are now considered safe during pregnancy. Hello, cheesy omelettes!
Is it Safe to Drink When Pregnant?
Current guidance suggests avoiding alcohol, especially in the first three months. If you had a few drinks before discovering you were pregnant, don’t panic—you’re not alone. Many women enjoy the occasional glass later in pregnancy, feeling comfortable with the low risk involved.
The NHS advises that, to keep risks to a minimum, it’s safest to avoid alcohol entirely during pregnancy. Alcohol can cross the placenta, and your baby’s developing liver can’t process it as efficiently as yours. High alcohol consumption can increase your risk of miscarriage and lead to complications like low birthweight or foetal alcohol spectrum disorder, which can cause serious health issues for your baby.
Smoking During Pregnancy
Smoking during pregnancy is widely condemned for a reason. It raises the risk of low birthweight, premature birth, respiratory problems, miscarriage, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Even if you find it tough to quit, every cigarette you skip benefits your baby. Nicotine and carbon monoxide in cigarettes reduce oxygen supply to your baby, significantly increasing the risk of stillbirth and premature birth. Every effort to quit is a positive step for both you and your baby.
Taking Drugs During Pregnancy
If you’re using illegal drugs like cannabis, ecstasy, ketamine, or cocaine, it’s important to stop immediately. These substances cross the placenta and increase the risk of complications and foetal abnormalities. Seek help from your doctor as soon as you find out you’re pregnant—they can provide the support you need.
Should I Avoid Dental X-Rays?
Inform your dentist that you’re pregnant. You’ll get free dental treatment on the NHS, and they’ll take precautions, like possibly delaying x-rays until after your baby is born. If an x-ray is necessary, your abdomen will be covered with a lead apron to minimise any risks.
Is It Safe to Change the Cat’s Litter Tray?
Cat faeces can carry a parasite that causes toxoplasmosis, which isn’t serious for you but can be harmful to your baby. If possible, let someone else handle the litter tray. If you must do it, wear rubber gloves and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.
Sunbathing and Pregnancy
Your skin is more sensitive during pregnancy, so wear high SPF sunscreen if you’re out in the sun. Avoid overheating by staying out of saunas, hot baths, and sunbeds—they can be dangerous for your baby, especially in the first months. Always stay hydrated and seek shade during hot weather.
Avoiding People with Infectious Diseases
Your immune system is lower during pregnancy, making you more susceptible to infections. Try to avoid anyone with contagious illnesses like chickenpox, rubella, or fifth disease. If you do come into contact with someone who is ill, consult your midwife.
Things to Be Careful Around During Pregnancy
While it’s crucial to avoid specific high-risk items, there are others you just need to approach with caution.
Chemicals
Be mindful of exposure to environmental chemicals found in food packaging, cleaning products, pesticides, and paint. Avoid items with strong chemical odors, and ask for help with tasks like painting or using insecticides.
Hair Dye
You can colour your hair during pregnancy, though some women prefer to wait until the second trimester. Use gloves, ensure good ventilation, and always do a patch test first.
Caffeine
Limit your caffeine intake to 200mg per day. This is roughly equivalent to one cup of coffee and a small bar of chocolate. Switching to decaf options can help you manage your intake more easily.
Medicines
Paracetamol is generally safe in pregnancy, but always consult your doctor or midwife before taking any medication.
Underwired Bras
Comfort is key. Properly fitting bras, whether underwired or not, are essential during pregnancy as your breasts change size and shape.
Things You Should Do in Pregnancy
Focusing on positives is just as important. Eat a balanced diet full of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, proteins, and calcium-rich foods. Stay hydrated and monitor your weight gain to avoid complications like gestational diabetes.
Keep taking folic acid supplements up until 12 weeks of pregnancy to protect your baby from neural tube defects. Regular exercise and pelvic floor exercises are recommended to keep you fit, flexible, and healthy.
Get Your Care and Support in Place
Make sure to book in with your midwives early on, visit the dentist for your free care, and tour local maternity units to decide where you’d like to give birth. Don’t forget to book antenatal classes—they can fill up quickly and are a great resource for information and making new friends.
Rest More
Pregnancy can be exhausting. Take naps when you can and get plenty of rest.
A Final Word
Unborn babies are remarkably resilient. If you’ve accidentally engaged in activities or consumed items that are considered risky, don’t be too hard on yourself. The human race has thrived despite various maternal habits, and chances are, your baby will be perfectly healthy. Being informed and making the best choices you can is what truly matters.
Enjoy this special time, knowing you’re doing everything in your power to ensure a healthy pregnancy!
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