Pregnancy Safety

Page Updated on July 28, 2007

There are tons of "do's" and "don't" when it comes to being pregnant. Here are some things to avoid.

Drugs and medications Potential problems include birth defects, miscarriage, premature birth, retardation, low birth weight, cerebral palsy
- Smoking and second-hand smoke
- Nicotine in any form
- Alcohol
- Illegal drugs
- Over the counter or prescription drugs not approved by your doctor for pregnancy
- Herbs not specifically approved by your doctor for pregnancy
- Caffeine (simply cutting back is fine)
Household and industrial chemicals Potential problems include birth defects, miscarriage, premature birth
- Pesticides (bug killer)
- Herbicides (weed killer)
- Fertilizer
- Household cleaners
- Paint and solvents
- Lead
- Contaminated water
- PCBs
Possible foods contaminated with Listeria Potential problems include miscarriage, stillbirth, breathing problems, feeding problems, temperature regulation problems
- Raw seafood
- Shellfish
- Raw eggs
- Deli meat
- Hot dogs
- Sausages
- Undercooked meat
- Soft cheeses (hard cheese, processed cheese, cottage cheese, and yogurt are okay)
- Unpasturized cheese
Possible sources of toxoplasmosis Potential problems include mental retardation, jaundice, seizures, vision problems, low birth weight
- Cat litter
- Raw or undercooked meat
Jolting movements and falls Potential problems include placental abruption, fetal injury
- 4x4ing / off-roading
- Amusement park thrill rides
- Horseback riding
- Surfing
- Skiing
- Biking
- Waterslides
- Diving
- High heel shoes
Increasing your body temperature Potential problems include birth defects
- Extremely hot baths or hot tubs
- Exercising too much
- Saunas
- Electric blankets set at too high of a temperature
Fish that contain methylmercury Potential problems include nervous system defects
- Shark
- Swordfish
- Tilefish
- King Mackerel
- Limit tuna and other cooked fish to less than 12 oz. per week
Radiation Potential problems include birth defects
- Using your hands-free devices for cell phone if it requires that you place the phone next to your pregnant belly
- Ionizing radiation not approved by your doctor for medical procedures