10 Mistakes Not to Make During Pregnancy
Having a baby is one of the most special experiences in your life. However, in this process, you need to take extra care of your health. It’s important to avoid some common mistakes so that both mom and baby stay healthy. Here are 10 mistakes made during pregnancy and suggestions for a healthy pregnancy:
1. Wrong Fish Consumption
While fish can be a healthy source of nutrients during pregnancy, it’s important to choose the right fish. Large fish, especially swordfish, shark and tuna, can contain high amounts of mercury, which can be dangerous for mother and baby. Instead, opt for small fish such as sardines and anchovies. Also avoid processed foods; Foods such as salami and sausages containing nitrates can put your baby’s health at risk.
2. Not Controlling Diabetes
The risk of diabetes increases during pregnancy. Hormones secreted from the placenta can affect blood sugar levels, which can be dangerous for the mother. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, you should limit sugar consumption and be regularly checked by a doctor. Otherwise, serious health problems may occur for both mother and baby.
3. Gaining Excess Weight or Gaining Less Weight
Gaining excess weight during pregnancy can increase the risk of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. By monitoring your monthly weight gain with your doctor, take care to stay within a healthy range. Insufficient weight gain can adversely affect the development of the baby. A balanced and regular diet is very important in this process.
4. Exaggerating Caffeine Consumption
Drinking coffee can be part of many people’s daily routine, but it is necessary to limit caffeine consumption during pregnancy. Excessive caffeine consumption can affect the baby’s sleep patterns and lead to fluid loss. Be careful not to take more than 200 mg of caffeine per day and avoid acidic drinks.
5. Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
Smoking and alcohol are habits that should definitely be avoided during pregnancy. Smoking increases the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and stillbirth, while alcohol can lead to fetal alcohol syndrome. Stay away from these harmful substances for the health of both mother and baby.
6. Exercising Inadequately or Excessively
Playing sports is beneficial during pregnancy, but overdoing it can increase the risk of preterm birth. Opt for low-intensity exercises, such as light-paced walks or yoga. In this way, you will stay in shape and not harm your baby’s health.
7. Taking Too Hot Baths
Taking a hot bath during pregnancy can cause your blood pressure to drop and pose a risk of fainting. The temperature of the bath water should not exceed 37 degrees. In this way, you can keep both yourself and your baby safe. You should also know that you should not be exposed to the hot water found in hot springs.
8. Inadequate Hygiene
Vaginal infections can increase the risk of preterm birth during pregnancy. Therefore, make sure that sanitary pads are made of natural materials and are odorless. Also, avoid practices such as vaginal douching; Such habits can disrupt the acidity of the vagina and lead to infections.
9. Keeping Plants in the Bedroom
Having plants in the bedroom can adversely affect oxygen balance. At night, you may experience headaches and sleep problems due to the oxygen consumption of plants. Therefore, it would be a healthier choice to move the plants to other rooms.
10. Not Paying Attention to Your Sleeping Position
Sleeping position during pregnancy is of great importance for the expectant mother to have a comfortable sleep and the health of the baby. Sleeping on your back, especially in the third trimester, can restrict the baby’s blood flow to the mother and lead to low blood pressure. The safest sleeping position is to lie on the left side. This position allows the baby to receive oxygen more comfortably and supports the blood circulation of the expectant mother. Don’t forget to use pillows to support your back for a comfortable sleep.
Source: Acıbadem
