Things To Avoid When Getting Pregnant

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Pregnancy is a special time in a mother’s life. While there is much to be excited about, it is important that one takes all necessary precautions to create the highest likelihood of a successful and healthy pregnancy. Although many of the points listed below may seem like common sense, they are important to follow. After all, healthy habits often lead to healthy pregnancies and conversely unhealthy habits lead to unhealthy ones.

It is no secret that smoking is unhealthy. Smoking while pregnant is no exception. All expecting mothers should refrain from smoking. Evidence and studies have clearly shown that smoking causes many pregnancy risks and birth defects. Aside from reducing pregnancy rates in women, smoking can also reduce sperm counts in men. If you do smoke, make a serious attempt to reduce smoking as much as possible and if possible stop altogether.

Alcohol is another substance to stay away from during pregnancy. Alcohol reduces fertility rates and can cause serious pregnancy complications such as fetal alcohol syndrome. If you planning to get pregnant or if there is a chance that you may already be pregnant, be sure to practice a healthy pregnancy lifestyle and avoid alcohol.

As to be expected, illegal drugs such as cocaine, heroine, ecstasy and other popular street drugs are known to cause birth defects and cause complications. Illicit drugs should of course be avoided in general and especially when considering pregnancy.

While the items above may seem straightforward and common sense, other things to stay away from may be less clear. For instance, stress can potentially play a factor when pregnant. While scientific evidence is conflicting regarding the impact of emotional and general stress, it certainly makes sense that one should try to bring their child into the world in a stress free environment.

Additionally, many women have other medical problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure and asthma amongst many other ailments that may affect a pregnancy. It is extremely important to discuss these situations with one’s own personal doctor as each case is unique and should be treated on a case by case scenario. It is also important to note that diabetes is a growing trend. To increase their chances of getting pregnant and having a healthy baby, those with diabetes should control their diabetes before getting pregnant.

If you have any further questions about things to avoid when getting pregnant, please leave a comment below.