Pregnancy is a time when we need to be more careful and avoid certain activities to ensure the safety of both the mother and baby.
During pregnancy, not all activities are suitable. Some are strongly recommended, while others are strictly prohibited.
To ensure a safe birth, you should avoid the following activities:
Avoid Certain Foods
Certain foods can pose risks during pregnancy and should be avoided to protect both the mother and baby.
Foods to Avoid:
- Undercooked or raw meat
- Liver products such as pâté and sausages
- Cold-cured meats like prosciutto
- High-mercury fish such as king mackerel
- Cold-smoked or cured fish such as smoked salmon
- Raw shellfish, especially oysters and scallops
- Egg dishes that are not fully cooked, including lightly scrambled eggs
- Foods made from unpasteurized milk, such as kefir, butter, cream, yogurt, and pudding
- Soft cheeses such as brie, queso fresco, and blue-veined cheeses
- Unripe papaya, which contains latex and papain
- Street foods like hamburgers and pizza
- Unwashed fruits and vegetables
- Processed foods like bread, cookies, and rolls
These foods may contain bacteria or parasites such as Toxoplasma, E. coli, and Salmonella, increasing the risk of infection and birth defects.
Avoid Caffeine
Excessive caffeine intake increases the risk of pregnancy complications, including low birth weight, miscarriage, stillbirth, and other birth issues.
Foods and Drinks Containing Caffeine:
- Coffee
- Black and green tea
- Chocolate (sweet, semi-sweet, dark)
- Soft drinks and energy drinks
- Chocolate bars and energy bars
- Cocoa beverages
Pregnant women can safely consume up to 200 mg of caffeine per day (as recommended by ACOG).
Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol is completely prohibited during pregnancy—no amount is safe. It affects fetal development and increases the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm birth, and many other complications.
Alcoholic Beverages to Avoid:
- Beer
- Wine
- Vodka
- Whiskey
- Brandy
- Rum
Also, avoid alcohol-containing kitchen ingredients such as vinegar, food additives, and condiments.
Avoid Changing the Litter Box
Avoid changing cat litter during pregnancy. Cat litter may contain Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite that can cause toxoplasmosis, a severe infection that harms the fetus.
Possible complications include:
- Retinal damage
- Brain damage
- Heart damage
- Kidney damage
- Intellectual disabilities
Avoid Cleaning the Waste Bin
Pregnant women should avoid handling waste bins, as they contain trash, broken glass, and toxic chemicals, which pose risks.
Avoid Lifting Heavy Objects
Lifting heavy objects is strongly discouraged during pregnancy and is one of the first precautions advised by doctors.
Lifting heavy objects can lead to:
- Pulled muscles
- Spotting
- Hernia
- Miscarriage
- Stillbirth
- Other pregnancy complications
Avoid Prolonged Exposure to Heat
Staying in hot environments, such as kitchens or direct sunlight, for long periods is not safe during pregnancy.
Excessive heat can cause:
- Skin irritation
- Heat stroke
- Dehydration
- Premature birth
- Low birth weight
- Fetal developmental issues
- Other pregnancy complications
To reduce exposure, consider cooking using shortcuts rather than long processes.
Household Tasks
Women generally perform various household tasks, but pregnant women should avoid physically demanding chores.
Since their bodies undergo significant changes, they require more rest and assistance with heavy tasks.
Safe Household Chores:
- Washing dishes (with gloves)
- Preparing meals
- Making beds (if there is no discomfort)
- Taking care of children
Risky Household Chores to Avoid:
- Sweeping floors
- Taking out the trash
- Doing laundry
- Cleaning bathroom surfaces
- Grocery shopping
- Tidying up living spaces
- Cleaning countertops
Avoid Amusement Parks
Pregnant women should avoid amusement parks, as these places are often crowded and may pose risks of sudden accidents.
Certain rides, such as roller coasters, pendulum rides, freefall rides, bumper cars, and water slides, are particularly dangerous.
The jerky and bouncy movements of these rides can cause:
- Nausea and dizziness
- Placental abruption
- Pregnancy complications
Avoid Chemical-Based Skin Treatments
Chemical-based skin treatments should be avoided during pregnancy, as some ingredients may harm the skin or be absorbed into the bloodstream.
Hair Dye
If you plan to dye your hair, wait until the second trimester. Then, for safety, choose an ammonia-free and less toxic formula dye.
Conclusion
A healthy lifestyle is essential for the well-being of both the mother and baby. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your routine. Avoid risky activities and enjoy this exciting chapter in your life!
