This archive report was first published on 31 August 2019.
As of August 31, 2019, pregnancy is a wonderful experience for many women, but there are certain things that pregnant women should avoid to ensure the health and safety of both themselves and their unborn babies.
According to Dr. Mukui Ng'ang'a, the first three months of pregnancy are the most vulnerable period for the baby's development. During this time, the baby's vital organs are forming, and external factors may result in malformation or birth defects.
Unfortunately, most women only become aware of their pregnancy towards the end of the second month, often by which time the baby has inadvertently been exposed to harmful substances.
Some of the things that pregnant women should avoid include:
- Alcohol, which can lead to a variety of conditions referred to as 'fetal alcohol spectrum disorders' including 'fetal alcohol syndrome.'
- Raw meat, fish, and eggs, which can harbour harmful germs like salmonella and toxoplasma that can cause food poisoning.
- Unprocessed milk products, which can lead to food poisoning.
- Too much caffeine, which can lead to palpitations, elevated blood pressure, and cause you to pee too much.
- Medication, including over-the-counter painkillers and herbal medication, which should always be discussed with a doctor before use.
- Smoking, which is harmful to both the woman and her baby.
- Exposure to second-hand smoke.
- Shoes with an unnatural lift, which can give unnecessary pressure on the back.
- Activities with high risks of falling, such as rock climbing.
- Changing the cat's litter box, which puts her at risk of a deadly infection known as toxoplasmosis.
- Lifting heavy loads, which can cause pulled muscles and even preterm labour.
- Illegal drugs, which increase the risk of miscarriage and birth defects.
- Chemicals used in animal care, painting, or in horticulture/floriculture, which can be harmful to pregnant women.
- Engaging in contact sports, which can cause detachment of the placenta from the womb.
- Rides in amusement parks, which can lead to detachment of the placenta.
It's also worth noting that there is no evidence that the hair products on our shelves are harmful to unborn babies, and sitting in the hair dryer has not been found to interfere with pregnancy in any way.
