Pregnancy dos and don'ts: Uncovering lesser-known guidelines and their significance
|Published
Pregnancy is a remarkable journey, filled with both joyous moments and unexpected challenges. When you're expecting, there’s a lot of advice about what you should and shouldn’t do. Some of it can be overwhelming or even confusing.
While the basics of prenatal care are widely known, several lesser-known tips and guidelines can make all the difference in ensuring a healthy pregnancy and a smooth transition into parenthood.
Many TikTokers share what their health practitioners told them to do and avoid, which surprised some given that they seem 'harmless'
@doctorkdofficial Doctor Explains What NOT To Do In Pregnancy
♬ original sound - Dr Kaushiki Dwivedee
Don’ts during pregnancy
Don’t eat deli meat: Deli meats like hot dogs, sausages, smoked salmon, and other cured meats might be convenient and tasty, but they can pose a risk during pregnancy.
These processed meats can harbour harmful bacteria, leading to foodborne illnesses such as listeriosis and toxoplasmosis.
This is because processed meats often have a lot of surface area where bacteria can grow. To lower your risk, make sure these meats are thoroughly cooked before eating.
Also, stick to pasteurised (not raw) milk and cheese, and always wash fruits and vegetables to minimise exposure to harmful bacteria.
@farooqirfan98 Please avoid laying on your back during the 2nd & 3rd trimesters of your #pregnancy #trimester2 #trimester3 #pregnant ♬ Suspense, horror, piano and music box - takaya
Don’t clean the cat’s litter box: If you have a cat at home, it’s perfectly fine to cuddle with your furry friend during pregnancy — just be careful when it comes to cleaning the litter box.
Cat faeces can carry a parasite called toxoplasma gondii, which is especially dangerous for pregnant women.
According to Healthline, contracting toxoplasmosis can lead to serious complications in pregnancy, including miscarriage or stillbirth.
Even if your baby is born healthy, they might face lifelong health issues like seizures or mental disabilities if exposed to this parasite in the womb. To be safe, ask someone else to handle litter box duty until after your baby is born.
Caffeine: First and foremost, be mindful of your caffeine intake. While a moderate amount of caffeine (less than 200mg per day) is generally considered safe, it's important to be aware that excessive caffeine consumption has been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage and low birth weight.
No use of a sauna while pregnant and hot tub baths: Soaking in a hot tub is one of those things to avoid during pregnancy, especially in early pregnancy. The high temperatures in hot tubs can raise your body temperature which can be harmful to your baby.
No tattoos while pregnant: It’s generally advised to avoid getting a tattoo while pregnant, as the risks associated with this are unknown. It’s best to wait until after you have given birth and finished breastfeeding to get inked.
If you’re considering getting a tattoo while pregnant, it’s important to discuss it with your health-care provider to fully understand the risks involved.
Do not sleep on your back: During the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, it’s recommended not to sleep on your back. This position can put pressure on a major blood vessel and reduce blood flow to your heart and baby.
Sleeping on your side (right or left) is the best position when you’re lying down.
Dos during pregnancy
Drink your water: Another often overlooked aspect of pregnancy nutrition is the importance of staying hydrated. Pregnant women require significantly more fluids than their non-pregnant counterparts, with experts recommending at least 8-12 cups of water per day.
Dehydration can lead to a host of issues, from headaches and fatigue to pre-term labour.
Exercise but don’t overdo it: Exercise during pregnancy is a topic that often sparks confusion and concern. While it’s true that certain activities should be avoided, the benefits of staying active far outweigh the risks.
One of the lesser-known dos of pregnancy exercise is the importance of incorporating strength training. Contrary to popular belief, lifting weights can actually help to alleviate common pregnancy discomforts, such as back pain and swelling.
Prioritise your mental health: Pregnancy can be an incredibly stressful time, both physically and emotionally. While the importance of managing stress is widely recognised, there are a few lesser-known strategies that can make a big difference.
One often overlooked technique is the power of mindfulness and meditation. This can help to alleviate anxiety, improve sleep, and even reduce the risk of postpartum depression.
Have a support system: Another often underappreciated aspect of stress management is the role of social support.
While it’s natural to want to keep your pregnancy private in the early stages, research has shown that maintaining a strong support network can have a significant impact on your overall well-being.
Taking care of your health during pregnancy is crucial, not just for you, but for your baby as well.