Things to Avoid When You are Pregnant
We all know that caffeine, cigarettes and recreational, and even some prescription drugs, are a no-no when you are pregnant, but what about other dangerous substances that can harm the growing fetus? You can be paranoid your whole pregnancy, or you can do some basic research to find out the most important things to avoid when you’re expecting.
The Cat’s Litter Box
If you have a cat, it is important that you assign the task of cleaning the litter box to someone else while you are pregnant. The feces of cats are carriers of a parasite that can cause toxoplasmosis. The expectant mother may feel like she has the flu, but the baby can be at risk for miscarriage, premature delivery and some serious health problems. If you are an avid gardener, wear gloves during your pregnancy in case a stray cat has used your garden as a toilet. Stay away from sandboxes for the same reasons.
Herbal Supplements and Remedies
You may be under the false impression that taking herbal supplements while you are pregnant is perfectly safe. Some herbal remedies such as pennyroyal, mugwort, and goldenseal can cause you to start early labor or have a miscarriage. Some other herbs are also associated with dangerous risks to pregnant women and the fetus, so it is best to avoid herbal teas as well, unless you speak to your health care provider before doing so.
Becoming Overheated
You may think that a relaxing soak in the tub or a spell in a soothing sauna is the perfect way to pamper yourself during your pregnancy, but raising the core temperature of the body, especially during the first trimester of pregnancy can cause birth defects in the developing fetus. This is not to say you can’t take a bath; just be sure the temperature doesn’t rise above 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Filed under: Labor & Birth, Uncategorized
