Dos & Dont’s Of Pregnancy
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Soon after you find out your pregnant you will be up at 2:00 AM googling “Is it safe to get a mani/pedi while pregnant?” I promise you. It’s like all of the sudden your brain switches to mommy mode and you have to know everything you can and can’t do. The best advice I got was from my OB and she said “Stop worrying so much. Your body is amazing and will let you know if you need to slow down or if something is wrong. Just listen”. This seriously took so much stress off of me. I wasn’t giving my body enough credit, if you listen to your body and its needs I promise you, you will be okay. Every pregnancy and ever body is so different. This list is not made to replace any advice or precautions your doctor gives you!
I have however made a list of common questions and questions I had myself! So now you don’t have to stay up weird hours of the night googling them.
Is it safe to fly?
It is usually safe to fly while you’re pregnant, you just might feel even sicker than you already do. However, some airlines won’t let you fly after week 28 of your pregnancy, so it is always best to check what your airline’s policy is.
Can I take a hot bath?
It is best to avoid very hot baths, especially in the first 13 weeks (there is a risk of harming your unborn baby). Your risk of overheating and fainting are common in pregnancy.
Can I still exercise?
Of course you can still exercise! In fact they say that working out while your pregnant helps speed up the labor process as well as recovery. Your body will tell you if you need to slow down or take a break. Make sure you are staying hydrated and listening to your body. If something hurts stop doing it, there is no shame in taking a cool off break. Need a list of best prenatal exercises? Here’s our article on how to stay fit during pregnancy!
Can I still have sex?
Unless your doctor advises against having sex or orgasms then you are in the clear! Be warned though you might have slight cramps after, it is totally normal. Obviously if the cramps get painful or don’t go away call your doctor immediately.
Can I eat spicy food?
Don’t worry you don’t have to give up your spice! Some women experience heartburn while they are pregnant and spicy food never helps with that so you might have to lay off of it for a while. They key is to stick to a healthy varied diet.
Can I have a small amount of alcohol?
No. It is recommended that you steer clear of alcohol. Alcohol passes through the placenta to your unborn baby and as it can’t process it as fast as you can, damage can occur leading to low birth weight, heart defects, learning and behavioural disorders or more serious damage such as facial deformities and mental illness. Don’t worry though, there are so many fun mocktails.
Can I just cut down on smoking?
Another straight no. Smoking can seriously harm the health of your baby so it is strongly recommended that you give up completely when pregnant. The chemicals in cigarettes stop oxygen and essential nutrients from reaching your unborn baby. This affects the baby’s heart, making it work harder, as well as its growth rate and the brain’s development. If you do smoke during pregnancy there is an increased risk of stillbirth, your baby is more likely to be born prematurely and be underweight and is more likely to get respiratory infections. There is also an increased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) also known as cot death and your baby is more likely to smoke when they’re older.
Can I use hair dye?
The limited evidence available says that there is probably no risk to dying your hair during pregnancy. If you are concerned, consider waiting until the second trimester when all your baby’s organs have developed. It might be a good idea to avoid an all-over hair colour and opt for streaks or highlights so the chemicals have little or no contact with your scalp (hair-colouring agents will be absorbed through the skin, not through the hair shaft).
(If you are dying your hair yourself, wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated room. Don’t leave the dye on any longer than necessary, and thoroughly rinse your scalp at the end of the process).
Can I still get a massage?
Massage is an excellent way to keep calm and relaxed during your pregnancy and can be a great pain relief during labour but it is important to make sure your massage therapist knows you are pregnant and is experienced in giving prenatal massages. In the first trimester, a massage should avoid the lower pelvic area near the uterus.
Can I use fake tan?
Skin can be more sensitive during pregnancy so it is best to avoid fake tan as it can sometimes cause an allergic reaction. If you do decide to have a tan, carry out a patch test on your skin beforehand. Fake tan is non-toxic substance and doesn’t go beyond the outer layer of skin so it is not absorbed into the body.
Can I sleep on my back?
Although it is safe to sleep on your back during the first trimester, it is a good idea to get used to sleeping on your side. This is because, as the uterus gets heavier, it presses on the vein that returns blood from your lower body to your heart when you lie on your back. If you do this for an extended period, there is a danger that it could affect the flow of blood and nutrients to the placenta. If you do wake up and find yourself on your back, don’t panic. It shouldn’t have any serious adverse effect on your baby. Try placing cushions between your thighs, along your back and under your bump to make the sleeping position more comfortable.
I hope that this helped answer a few of your questions! Talk with your doctor if you have any concerns or you have any questions on the do’s and don’ts they will be happy to answer them for you. Remember no question is a dumb question. We are all still trying to figure it out too! Happy googling Mamas (I know you will be). Xoxo
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