Although most pregnant women can still carry out their regular activities, they usually need to avoid certain activities and substances that could harm their unborn child.
Drinking alcohol
Alcohol can affect a fetus if consumed by pregnant women. It crosses the placenta and may result in fetal alcohol syndrome. Because of this, doctors recommend that expectant mothers refrain from drinking alcohol.
Eating certain foods
Pregnant women typically avoid certain food items due to how it makes them feel sick or because it alters their sense of smell. Some of these should be avoided altogether.
Too much caffeine
Alcohol and caffeine as well as gambling online casino nzd cross the placenta and can affect a fetus. Although it is not clear how much caffeine a woman should consume during pregnancy, research suggests that the daily intake should be around 300 milligrams. Experts believe that this amount can be harmful to a fetus and increase the risk of miscarriage or low birth weight.
Hot tubs, saunas, and overheating
Although it can help ease discomfort during pregnancy, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) suggests avoiding hot baths and saunas. According to the organization, these activities can cause a woman’s body temperature to rise, which could lead to abnormalities in her unborn child. This issue usually occurs during the first trimester.
Contact sports
Pregnant women should avoid engaging in sports such as boxing or football, as these activities can increase the risk of a condition known as placental abruption, which occurs when the placenta prematurely separates from the uterine wall. This condition can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or preterm birth. The looser ligaments caused by hormonal changes can also result in injury.
Activities with a fall risk
During the first few months of pregnancy, it is generally safe for women to engage in certain activities. However, after that, it is advised that they avoid falling. Some of these include rock climbing, skiing, and ice skating. Even minor falls can lead to injury as the belly’s center of gravity shifts.
Amusement parks
Some amusement parks do not allow pregnant individuals to ride certain rides. These include those that have stop or start sequences. The jarring movements of these attractions can result in placental abruption or motion sickness.
Smoking
Cigarette smoking during pregnancy can have detrimental effects on both mother and fetus. Not only does it increase the risk of lung cancer and heart disease, but it can also lead to various health issues for the mother and her unborn child.
Some of the common birth defects that can be caused by smoking include cleft palate and lip abnormalities. It can also increase the risk of blood clots in the mother.
It is important for pregnant women to stop smoking immediately. They should also avoid being exposed to second-hand smoke. Pregnant women who are struggling with stopping can talk to their doctor about getting help.
Drugs
In spite of the dangers associated with illegal substance use, pregnant women should consider its negative effects on their unborn child. For instance, if a mother uses prescription drugs or illegal substances during her pregnancy, her unborn child may experience withdrawal symptoms at birth. Also, substance abuse can increase the likelihood of experiencing pregnancy loss, stillbirth, or even abnormalities in the unborn child.
Some types of exercise
Most pregnant women should engage in regular exercise. However, it is important for them to consult with their doctor first to make sure that they are not affected by other health issues. If the doctor gives the go signal, they should start doing moderate exercise for around 30 minutes a day.
Although there are certain types of exercise that are not ideal for pregnant women, the doctor can help determine the appropriate exercise for each individual. After the first trimester, it is important for people to avoid lying on their back. They should also avoid performing activities that can cause them to fall.
