What to Avoid in Your First Trimester of Pregnancy to Keep Your Baby Healthy

What to Avoid in Your First Trimester of Pregnancy to Keep Your Baby Healthy

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The first twelve weeks of pregnancy are vital for both mother and child. There are higher chances of miscarriages in the first trimester than at any other point in the pregnancy. Therefore, the mother needs to take precaution at this time for the baby to be healthy. What to Avoid in Your First Trimester of Pregnancy to Keep Your Baby HealthyThe following need to be avoided to keep the baby healthy during the first trimester and throughout the pregnancy.

Alcohol

Alcoholic drinks such as liquor, wine, and beer can cause damage to your baby. They increase the chances of the baby being born prematurely or with defects. You should avoid alcoholic drinks at all costs during your pregnancy to ensure your child is healthy.

Raw or Undercooked Food

Some types of food contain high levels of bacteria such as salmonella and listeria. These can adversely affect the health of your unborn child. Ensure your food is well cooked, especially eggs, seafood, and beef, before you eat. Deli meat should also be avoided as it causes blood poisoning, which can be fatal to your baby.

Caffeine

If you find it hard to do away with caffeine, limit your daily intake. Caffeine is a strong stimulant that can be detrimental to your baby’s health. Remember, your child is still developing, and such stimulants are extremely potent for their body to handle.

Exposure to Harmful Chemicals

When the mother is exposed to hazardous fumes and chemicals, the baby is adversely affected. These chemicals can lead to brain damage, cancer, various congenital disabilities, or even death. The mother needs to avoid low levels of toxins such as fumes from paint and passive smoking. Some industries also emit high levels of toxins such as mercury and acids, which affect expectant mothers at the workplace. In such cases, birth injury attorneys can help. Their role is to defend these women whose exposure to chemicals has affected their babies.

Over the Counter Medication

Always consult with your doctor before you take any medication. During pregnancy, taking over the counter medication may cause harm to your baby. Your doctor will advise you on what medications to take and which you should avoid.

Other Precautions

Avoid high heeled shoes which reduce your balance. Wearing these may result in injury to your baby if you fall. Also, take warm baths instead of soaking in the hot tub. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to congenital disabilities.The first trimester is very critical for the development of the baby. The fetus is still developing, so precautions need to be taken at all times to ensure the baby develops fully. Always consult your doctor regularly to monitor your pregnancy.