Behaviors to Avoid
The following activities are not recommended in pregnancy:
- Triathlons or marathons
- Roller coasters / bumper cars
- Water skiing, rollerblading, ice skating, or snow mobile riding
- Horseback riding
- Jacuzzis, tanning beds, spray tans, steam rooms, saunas, hot tubs
- Cleaning a litter box
- Direct exposure to pesticides, fertilizers, or toxic chemicals (Must wear gloves when cleaning with household cleaners that contain bleach or other strong chemicals)
Painting
It is best to limit your exposure to paint and paint fumes while pregnant. Research studies are inconclusive on the effects paint exposure can have in pregnancy. Have someone else do the painting if possible.
If you are painting, choose a paint labeled “low-VOC” or “zero-VOC” These are usually latex paints that contain lower levels of solvents or “volatile oil compounds.”
Avoid exposure to oil-based paints, leads, and mercury.
The painting should be done in a well-ventilated area. If the fumes, make you dizzy or nauseous- stop painting.
Tobacco, Alcohol and Drugs
- Preterm birth
- Placenta problems
- Intrauterine fetal growth restriction
- Asthma, colic and childhood development problem
- Fetal alcohol syndrome which causes growth problems, mental or behavioral problems, and abnormal facial features
- SIDS (Sudden death of a child)
Toxoplasmosis
Toxoplasmosis is a serious blood infection caused by a parasite found in the feces of cats, unwashed fruits or vegetables, and raw meats.
We recommend:
- Avoid changing cat litter box or wear gloves if you must
- Wash all fruits and vegetables
- Avoid gardening or wear gloves
- Always cook meat thoroughly
Infections
Please contact our office if you think you have or have been exposed to the following:
- Toxoplasmosis
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
- Parvovirus B19 (Fifth Disease)
- Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (Enterovirus)
- Varicella (Chicken pox)*
*During your initial visit, you will be tested for and informed if you have varicella immunity. Varicella infection can be dangerous to the baby during pregnancy. Do not expose yourself if you lack immunity to varicella or shingles.