Pregnancy is a time when a woman needs to be particularly attentive to both her own health and the health of her baby. To avoid risks that might affect either, it's crucial to take care with every step you take, the food you consume, and even the environments you expose yourself to. Here are some key things to avoid during pregnancy based on expert advice from Dr. Suad El-Menshawy, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
1. Movements to Avoid During Pregnancy:
Avoid Actions That Cause Strain:
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Lifting Heavy Objects: Lifting heavy items can cause excessive strain on your back and abdomen, which increases the risk of complications, such as early placental separation. If lifting is necessary, ask for assistance or use safe lifting techniques, like bending your knees and using your legs rather than your back.
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Sharp Twisting Movements: Sudden twisting can put unnecessary pressure on your abdomen and spine, leading to muscle strains or ligament injuries, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy.
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Excessive Forward Bending: Bending too far forward, like when trying to tie your shoes or pick something up from the ground, puts pressure on your abdomen, causing discomfort. It's advisable to use tools like a reacher or sit down while performing such tasks.
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Jumping and Sudden Movements: Avoid high-impact exercises or sports such as martial arts or skiing, as they put excessive strain on your body and increase the risk of injury. Also, avoid standing or sitting for prolonged periods without movement, which could lead to uterine contractions and increase the risk of preterm labor.
2. Types of Exercise to Avoid:
Avoid Group Sports with High Impact:
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Contact Sports: Sports such as football or basketball increase the risk of injury.
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Fast Movements: Sports like tennis and squash require quick direction changes that can strain your body.
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Intense Physical Activities: Activities like skiing, horseback riding, or mountain climbing can increase the risk of falls and physical exhaustion.
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Combat Sports: Avoid judo, karate, or boxing due to the risk of physical harm.
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Standing or Sitting for Long Periods: Prolonged standing can cause pressure on the legs and feet, and sitting without moving can lead to discomfort and swelling.
3. Food and Habits to Avoid During Pregnancy:
Dangerous Foods:
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Unhealthy and Fried Foods: Avoid fatty and fried foods, as well as undercooked or raw food, which can lead to listeria and toxoplasmosis infections, both of which can be dangerous to both mother and baby.
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Uncooked Meat and Eggs: These can contain harmful bacteria that increase the risk of miscarriage or birth defects. Ensure meat is fully cooked and eggs are properly prepared.
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Mercury-Rich Fish: Fish like swordfish and mackerel contain high levels of mercury, which can be toxic and lead to complications like early birth or miscarriage.
4. Environmental Factors to Be Cautious About:
Avoid Heat Exposure:
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Hot Baths, Saunas, or Steam Rooms: Exposure to high temperatures can cause overheating and dehydration, increasing the risk of fainting or harming your baby. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can make your body more sensitive to heat. Avoid hot environments, and take care to prevent overheating.
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Standing Up Quickly After a Hot Bath: This can lead to dizziness and increase the risk of miscarriage, especially in the early stages.
5. Other Important Tips:
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Stress and Excessive Caffeine: Avoid stress and consuming too much caffeine, especially in the first trimester. Caffeine can pass through the placenta and affect your baby's heart rate, and increase the risk of miscarriage.
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Cleaning Pet Waste: Do not handle pet waste during pregnancy, as it could contain harmful parasites that increase the risk of toxoplasmosis, a dangerous infection for both mother and baby.
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Overeating: Excessive weight gain can lead to obesity-related complications, back pain, and leg swelling. It may also make movement more difficult as pregnancy progresses.
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Chemical Exposure: Avoid exposure to harmful chemicals, including cleaning products. Always read labels on cleaning products to ensure they are safe for use during pregnancy.
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Consult a Doctor: If you exercise regularly, discuss with your doctor which activities are safe for you and your baby during pregnancy. If you don't exercise, seek your doctor’s advice on safe exercises, such as walking, swimming, or yoga.
By carefully following these precautions and staying in tune with your body’s needs, you can help ensure a healthy and safe pregnancy for both you and your baby. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions throughout your pregnancy journey.
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