The Do’s and Don’ts of Pregnancy
November 2, 2009
The do’s and don’ts for a pregnant woman, backed by scientific reasons, are in the interest of the child in her womb, as also in her own interest. Briefly discussed here, are some of them:
Avoid certain food:
Uncooked meat, certain seafood, soft cheese, unpasteurized milk are some of the foods which are not supposed to be consumed by the pregnant woman. Uncooked meat causes a disease called ‘Listeria’, which can cause miscarriage, birth defects or even still birth. So is with other foods, prohibited for the pregnant.
Cat:
Keep away from pets, particularly the cat. Feces of cat contain a parasite, which could cause a disease called ‘Toxoplasmosis’. If the pregnant were to contract this disease, there is likelihood of miscarriage or birth defects in the child. It may even result in stillborn child.
The doctors give a big ‘NO’ to smoking. Smoking can cause low birth weight, premature birth and even miscarriage. Even the passive smokers are likely to have the same problem.
Caffeine:
Some are of the opinion that it is not good during pregnancy. However, some other studies have shown that caffeine, if taken in minimum dose is not harmful. It says that about 300 ml of caffeine a day is not harmful to the baby in the womb or to would- be mother.
Avoid some household gadgets etc:
Pregnant should keep away from Aerosol cans, industrial strength cleaners, fumes from paints and solvent, strippers. These are likely to cause birth defects in the baby and other pregnancy related complication. While getting down from the staircase or climbing the stairs, she must be very careful.
Body temperature:
The body temperature should be moderate in the best interest of the child in the womb. Totally avoid saunas and hot bath.
Alcohol and drugs:
In the interest of the fetus, the pregnant should stop taking this altogether. Doctors say that there is nothing like minimum or safe dose of alcohol or drugs. Alcohol if taken by a pregnant woman, may affect supply of oxygen to the child, resulting in birth related defects. Doctors say it is no surprise that it may even infuse addiction in the child.
Exercise:
Exercising is recommendable. However, do the exercise in consultation with the physician and under the guidance of an instructor. Another recommended exercise is walking. Those who were doing weight lifting etc should readjust their exercise in consultation with the physician.
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