What you should absolutely not do during pregnancy. What not to do during pregnancy

Wondering what not to do during pregnancy? This question interests every woman, because the news that a new life will soon appear is not only joy, but also a reason for excitement. In the soul of every woman there is a growing sense of responsibility for that little miracle that is yet to be born. During this period, your lifestyle changes dramatically; you have to pay attention to things that you didn’t even know existed before. In this article we will try to cover the main aspects that should not be done during an “interesting” situation.

Proper diet for the expectant mother

In fact, the food that a woman eats is the key to the full development of the baby - after all, the necessary vitamins and microelements that the fetus so needs get into the body. First of all, give up diets for weight loss - starving yourself is fraught with many consequences. If a woman adheres to any diet for health reasons, she should definitely consult a doctor. There is also no need to allow the body to become dehydrated.

Besides:

• Try to avoid cinnamon, parsley or basil - they can have a negative effect on the digestive system;
• Avoid raw eggs (with the exception of quail), your favorite sushi, shellfish, dried fish - the risk of contracting salmonellosis increases many times over, not to mention such an unpleasant problem as helminths;
• Avoid smoked and undercooked meats, as they do not completely kill bacteria.

  Give preference to dishes made from boiled or stewed meat;

• Eat more vegetables and fruits, but you need to wash them especially carefully. If you are not sure about the origin of the products, it is best to pour boiling water over them before eating;
• Some dairy products will also have to be excluded from the diet - ayran, brie cheese, feta and other soft types that are made from unpasteurized milk. Only types of cheese that are made from pasteurized milk are safe;
• The consumption of alcohol and caffeine is strictly prohibited; your doctor may allow you to treat yourself to a cup of coffee, but very rarely. Such products can increase blood pressure, and this is not the most favorable phenomenon for a pregnant woman, so we can safely replace coffee with chicory, and wine with freshly squeezed juice;
• Do not get carried away with citrus fruits, chocolate, strawberries, nuts, exotic vegetables and fruits - they may cause allergies in the child in the future;
• If possible, avoid products that contain dyes, stabilizers, thickeners, aroma and taste enhancers;
• Forget about fast food - chips, hamburgers, crackers should be on the “black list”.

In general, the diet of the expectant mother should contain all the vitamins and microelements that are vital and necessary for the baby’s health, such as iodine, iron, folic acid, calcium and many other substances. It is also important to enrich the body with antioxidants during pregnancy - they will serve to prevent complications and increase immunity. The most optimal way to give yourself and your child everything you need and not miss anything is to take vitamin and mineral complexes with a balanced composition, such as Vitrum Prenatal Forte. This drug is approved by obstetricians and gynecologists as one of the most reliable and proven remedies for women who are expecting or are just planning to have a child.

Your habits

• Expectant mothers should avoid taking a hot bath or sauna. Excess heat above 39 degrees can affect the formation of the fetus, and in some cases cause a miscarriage;
• Pay more attention to your cosmetics: creams, shampoos, mascara should not contain toxic substances. But you should stop dyeing your hair for a while, since a woman’s body undergoes hormonal processes that can be affected by artificial dyes that penetrate through the scalp. To strengthen your hair, use natural remedies - decoctions of medicinal herbs, henna, masks, and so on;
• Avoid repellents, self-tanners and other substances for a while, as some of them may contain harmful substances that affect the development of the fetal nervous system;
• Medicines can only be taken as prescribed by a doctor - even the familiar tetracycline or paracetamol can cause serious complications in the fetus;
• Avoid lifting weights, jumping, walking quickly, or exercising vigorously. Slow yoga will be a good substitute, and it’s better to take a break from vigorous activity. The maximum weight that can be lifted is 5 kilograms, and in the last months - 3, because the expectant mother already has a hard time;
• Stop smoking, remember that even passive smoking is harmful, so stay away from smoking areas;
• When cleaning your home, ask your household members to help you, as many detergents and household chemicals contain toxins. Temporarily replace them with regular soap or a hypoallergenic product. Also, pregnant women are not recommended to take part in renovations, even if you really want to arrange the children's room yourself, entrust this to your family. Volatile compounds in paints, glues and other substances pose a serious danger;
• If you have a cat in your house, ask someone in your household to take care of it for a while. Cats are carriers of toxoplasmosis, a virus that is dangerous to the fetus.

Change your lifestyle. You are not allowed:

• Give up high heels for a while - you create additional stress on the spine, and it is carelessness during this period that causes postpartum back pain;
• Choose loose clothing made from natural materials, avoid tight and uncomfortable clothes;
• In the first trimester, the mother should absolutely not have an x-ray - only according to the doctor’s indications; also, no vaccinations should be given, especially against smallpox or malaria - they can cause defects in the fetus;
• Try to worry less and not get overtired, because this condition of the mother is passed on to the baby;
• Limit the time spent at the computer or with a mobile phone - the harm of radiation has not yet been proven, but it is still better to be on the safe side. If you have electric mattresses and blankets in your home, it is better to avoid them for a while;
• Try to avoid long trips. During this period, many women are contraindicated to drive a car or fly an airplane. This is especially true for those who suffer from bleeding, hypertension and other diseases;
• Try to avoid very crowded places as your body is now very sensitive to all infections. There is also a high probability that in a crowd a woman may be accidentally pushed into position or her stomach may be touched;
• Do not ignore your ailments - not only the health, but also the life of your baby may depend on your delay, so if you have alarming symptoms, immediately consult a doctor.

Pregnancy is the most crucial period in a woman’s life. In order to avoid various situations where something could go wrong, you should clearly know what pregnant women should not do at different stages. The primary task of a pregnant woman is to adjust her diet, establish harmony with the world around her, and have a positive attitude, not forgetting to maintain a healthy lifestyle. With this attitude towards her health, a woman will give birth to a full-fledged baby, who will give real happiness to the whole family.

What pregnant women should absolutely not do: dangerous habits

Cigarettes

Bad habits cause irreparable harm to a woman’s body. Today, more than ever, we should focus on this. Alcoholic drinks, smoking, and “passive smoking” will only harm the woman and the fetus. A pregnant woman should avoid places where smokers gather. This is especially common at work, when a group of employees retire for smoke breaks. Recently, smoking areas have been legalized in public toilets, where pregnant women often go. The components of cigarettes remain in the air for a long time even after the smoker leaves, especially if the room does not have forced ventilation.

The accumulation of nicotine and tar in the blood increases blood pressure, which can provoke a miscarriage at any time. In turn, alcohol threatens the functioning of all internal organs. Even, at first glance, low-alcohol drinks, such as beer or Martini, can cause severe intoxication of the body of the woman herself and the embryo. Alcohol irreversibly destroys groups of vital cells of the brain, hematopoietic organs, respiratory system, and nerve endings.

What clothes are harmful to pregnancy?

Great importance should be paid to clothing. During pregnancy, every woman needs to reconsider her wardrobe and change her preferences. You need to start with shoes. It should be comfortable, light, made of natural materials, and suitable for weather conditions. It is unacceptable to wear high-heeled shoes that are too narrow and have a high instep throughout the day.

Tight clothing negatively affects the health of a pregnant woman. You need to give up thongs, too-tight skirts with belts that are too tight at the waist.

How to sleep when pregnant?

Starting from the second trimester, a pregnant woman should not sleep on her back. An enlarged uterus in this position of the body puts increased pressure on the inferior vena cava, as a result of which the blood supply to the embryo worsens and blood stagnation in the peritoneum of the mother. This is fraught with freezing of the fetus and disruption of the internal organs of the woman’s abdominal cavity. For the same reason, pregnant women should not sit for long periods of time.

Vaccinations

Expectant mothers should not be vaccinated. Exceptions may include the following vaccinations:

• from the flu;
• from anthrax;
• from rabies;
• from yellow fever;
• from encephalitis.

Other vaccinations can cause severe allergic reactions and complications.

Working with household chemicals is extremely dangerous for a pregnant woman throughout her entire pregnancy. Toxic substances quickly penetrate the blood and quickly dissolve, spreading through the bloodstream throughout the body. Means used to combat indoor insects and garden pests cause equal harm to a woman’s body and fetus.

Cosmetics

Cosmetics containing added hormones and vitamins pose a danger. An excess of these substances can lead to deformities and diseases in the developing embryo. These products also include hair dyes, antiperspirants, hair and nail polishes, household chemicals for washing dishes and sanitary surfaces.

Gym

Gym exercises should be stopped during pregnancy. Excessive physical activity is strictly contraindicated for pregnant women at any stage.

cat litter

You can't clean up the cat litter. Contact with animal feces is fraught with the risk of transmitting toxoplasmosis to a woman, which can cause the death of the embryo.

Sex

Some women are prohibited by doctors from having sex during pregnancy. This is purely individual. In late pregnancy, sex is contraindicated.

Medicines

It is extremely important for a pregnant woman to choose medications to overcome illnesses. Throughout pregnancy, a woman can suffer respiratory infections, intestinal inflammation, severe migraines and much more. It can be difficult to cope with the disease without the help of pharmacological drugs. In such cases, the attending physician will prescribe gentle treatment with minimal risk to the health of the woman and the fetus.

What else should you not do during pregnancy?

Some activities that a woman is accustomed to in everyday life can negatively affect the development of the embryo and the health of the expectant mother. Sometimes you don’t even have to think about the dangers they conceal. Particular attention should be paid to medications that should not be taken without consultation with your doctor.

Solarium

Pregnant women are prohibited from visiting the solarium. Throughout the entire period, the body actively produces melanin, sometimes this even leads to pigment spots on the skin of different parts of the body. Additional ultraviolet radiation can make the situation worse. Therefore, when going outside in the summer, when the sun is more active, you should apply a protective sunscreen to your skin.

Aircraft

Flying on airplanes poses a high risk. At the moment of takeoff, blood pressure rises sharply due to the difference in atmospheric pressure and low oxygen concentration in the air. This may cause a miscarriage. Flight time is usually limited to several hours. Throughout this period, passengers are in a sitting position, they are inactive and do not have the opportunity to go out into the fresh air. All these factors are detrimental to a pregnant woman, and it is almost impossible to eliminate them until the plane arrives at its final destination.

X-ray and fluorography

Pregnant women do not undergo X-rays or fluorography. These studies have a negative impact on the development of the fetus. The nervous system, heart, respiratory and hematopoietic organs may be affected. X-rays are especially dangerous in the first trimester, when the formation of all internal organs and the brain occurs.

Conflicts and emotional TV shows

No matter how we all feel about the frequent stressful situations that surround us in the modern world, a pregnant woman, like no one else, needs to avoid them. Conflict situations in which pregnant women are forced to take part can provoke severe, prolonged headaches, psychosomatic disorders, and exacerbation of chronic diseases that are in a “dormant” state. You should avoid watching heavy psychological programs and movies. It also causes stress, which results in increased levels of the hormone cortisol in the blood, often leading to premature birth.

Hot shower and sauna

It is extremely dangerous to take a hot shower and steam in a bathhouse. This can cause bleeding and miscarriage. The water temperature for swimming should not exceed 40°C.

Nutrition and daily routine: all the pros and cons

For some reason, there is an opinion that pregnancy for most women is an unbearable test due to the fact that there are a huge number of prohibitions and restrictions. Actually this is not true. An observing doctor will help you adjust your diet. Some products should really be excluded, however, they can be replaced with less dangerous ones that will not cause harm to the pregnant woman’s body and the embryo.

A pregnant woman needs to follow a daily routine. This includes getting enough sleep and eating a balanced diet. Anyone experiencing sleep deprivation is irritable, unable to concentrate, and performs normal daily activities with an overwhelming feeling of fatigue. Of course, in a pregnant woman this condition affects the development of the embryo. The fetus is very sensitive to even minor changes in the mother's mood.

The diet is of particular importance during pregnancy. Not everyone is ready to change their eating habits, however, everything that the supervising doctor recommends is aimed at maintaining the health of the mother and child.

The expectant mother should avoid drinking too strong coffee and tea. These are diuretics; they remove fluid from the body along with calcium, significantly increasing blood pressure.

Meat and seafood must be subjected to mandatory heat treatment to avoid infection with helminths. Sushi, shellfish and dried river fish are particularly at risk.

Table No. 1 presents a list of foods that should be excluded from a pregnant woman’s diet or their consumption reduced.

Table No. 1. What foods should be excluded during pregnancy

Exclude		Not advisable
Alcohol		Fish high in mercury	Tuna and salmon accumulate mercury. The harm from mercury has been little studied, only the vapors are poisonous, but doctors do not recommend that pregnant women consume seafood that contains a high content of this element. The lowest levels of mercury are observed in trout, sprat, sardines, horse mackerel, and flounder.
Soft cheeses	There is a high risk of containing Listeria bacteria, which can cause miscarriage. Soft varieties of cheese, such as Feta, Brie, and blue cheeses, should be avoided during pregnancy and the lactation period.	Artificial sweeteners	Artificial sweeteners can negatively affect the development of the embryo. Natural sugar substitutes: stevia and sucralose are considered safe. Saccharin and Sodium Cyclamate are contraindicated.
Unpasteurized milk	Raw milk carries many potential dangers. These may be infections caused by pathogenic bacteria and microorganisms. Some of them do not manifest themselves immediately after entering the body, and diagnosing the resulting disease is very difficult.
	The liver has a high content of retinol, which in large quantities can negatively affect the development of the embryo.		Caffeine, along with other tonic substances, can lead to miscarriage, especially if the woman is pregnant. However, it is not necessary to completely eliminate coffee. It is better to consult a doctor.
Meat, fish, chicken, smoked meats	Pregnant women should not eat sausages produced for retail sale in supermarkets. Such sausages can be made from meat, as they say, “not the first freshness”, flavored with a large amount of spices and salt. You should also avoid dried fish, sushi, and smoked meats. The ingredients used in smokehouses are extremely harmful to anyone, let alone pregnant women. Fish that has not undergone heat treatment should be excluded during pregnancy and lactation. Fish meat may contain some dangerous helminths. River fish caught in suburban areas carries the risk of phenolic intoxication.	Canned food
A raw egg	Raw eggs are contraindicated for pregnant women, as Salmonella can multiply in them, which causes severe gastrointestinal disorders, including prolonged dysentery.	Canned pickles	Canned vegetables, due to their high salt and spice content, can cause an increased feeling of thirst, increasing swelling. Salt consumed in large quantities leads to dehydration, and in the early stages contributes to miscarriage. Brine should be excluded from preservation altogether. The use of preserves must be agreed upon with the supervising physician.
	Mushrooms are a little-studied product that is practically not absorbed by the body. Moreover, mushrooms can cause indigestion and even poisoning.	Store juices	Industrially produced juices may contain artificial colors and preservatives that can cause allergic reactions.
	It is not worth exposing the body of a woman and her unborn child to the risk of exposure to little-studied drugs that have not undergone clinical trials and have not received the necessary quality certificates, which have been dietary supplements over the past several decades. If there is still a need to take such drugs, you should coordinate their use with your supervising doctor.		Most spices have a tonic and stimulating effect on the centers of the peripheral nervous system. Adding even a small amount of spices to a pregnant woman's food can increase appetite, which is not desirable for everyone. Also, in the early stages of pregnancy, hot spices can cause miscarriage.

Folk signs: should you believe them?

In the modern world, despite scientific and technological progress, philistine superstitions still exist, to which even highly educated people often succumb. Folk signs that suggest what pregnant women should not do have come to our time from the deep past, when ancient peoples tracked natural phenomena and worshiped the power of unbridled elements. Many modern people sincerely believe in folk signs. Perhaps at this moment little-studied mechanisms are launched in the body on a subconscious level. If a person believes in signs, they will definitely have an impact.

So, the most common signs for pregnant women:

• You should not play with cats - the child will have many enemies;
• You should not tell your friends about your pregnancy at an early stage - they may jinx it;
• You cannot sit on the threshold - this is the border with the other world, in which evil spirits predominate;
• Eating red berries is dangerous - the child will have too red facial skin throughout his life;
• You cannot knit or sew - the baby may become entangled in the umbilical cord, which will complicate the delivery process;
• You can’t cut your hair - it shortens the life path of the unborn child;
• You cannot eat secretly and in the dark - the child will be born fearful and anxious;
• You cannot purchase things for an unborn baby before the moment of birth - things that are not worn immediately after purchase are the refuge of evil spirits;
• You cannot attend a funeral - in a cemetery, evil spirits can inhabit a baby who does not have a guardian angel before birth;
• You cannot sit with your legs crossed - the baby may be born with crooked legs or flat feet;
• You can’t hold your hands above your head for a long time (hanging curtains, underwear) - the baby may get tangled in the umbilical cord and be too active after birth;
• You cannot use obscene language when you are pregnant - the baby may be born with large birthmarks.

To believe or not to take folk signs on faith is a personal matter for each person. The gullibility of many people gives them peace of mind and reduces anxiety. This has a beneficial effect on the mental state of the pregnant woman. Although common sense should prevail in everything. For example, when it comes to cutting the hair on your head or consuming fruits that have a red tint.

In the article we discuss what not to do during pregnancy. We tell you what actions are undesirable for pregnant women in the early and late stages, and what signs there are. You will learn what not to do in the first, second and third trimester and what not to eat.

Pregnant woman holding her hands on her stomach

Superstitions

Most of the prohibitions associated with pregnancy exist at the level of signs, beliefs and superstitions. Most of them can be explained, but at the same time, some of the signs are not as dangerous as they might seem at first glance:

1. You cannot sit with your legs crossed - such a sign indicates that the child will be born with crooked legs. There is no scientific confirmation of this myth, but sitting cross-legged can cause swelling, deterioration of the veins in the legs and problems with blood circulation in the pelvis, especially in late pregnancy.
2. You can't either. According to legend, if a pregnant woman cuts her hair, this will lead to the baby being born without limbs. At the same time, hair coloring will also negatively affect it. There is no scientific evidence for this. Although when you dye your hair during pregnancy, the color you get may not be the one the woman wants, but in this case, this happens due to hormonal changes in the body.
3. You can’t sew - this superstition is explained by the fact that sewing during pregnancy can lead to the baby’s umbilical cord being entangled. There is no scientific confirmation of this; the length of the umbilical cord is influenced by heredity, and entanglement is most often observed in overly active babies.
4. You cannot swim in stagnant waters, sunbathe in the sun, or visit a solarium - but it is undesirable to ignore these signs. UV irradiation is dangerous for the fetus, and stagnant waters contain large numbers of bacteria. And if we take into account that a pregnant woman’s body is most often weakened, which is important for bearing a child, then the penetration of bacteria into the body of the expectant mother can cause various diseases. It is also advisable to refrain from hot baths, saunas and steam baths.
5. No contact with animals. Cats are potential carriers of toxoplasmosis. Therefore, if you touch an animal and then do not wash your hands and eat or touch the mucous membrane, a pregnant woman will almost certainly become infected with toxoplasmosis. This disease causes developmental defects in the child. It is for this reason that there is a superstition that expectant mothers should not pet cats.
6. You can't go to a funeral - for many people, visiting a cemetery is associated with sadness. And during pregnancy, the expectant mother should experience only positive emotions. Also, such a superstition is due to the fact that in a large crowd of people there is a high probability of contracting infectious diseases.
7. You cannot raise your arms up - it is quite possible that you have often heard about the prohibition of raising your arms during pregnancy. This superstition is explained, for example, by the fact that if a woman hangs curtains, she will become dizzy and fall. In other cases, the hands of the expectant mother raised up will not cause any harm.
8. You cannot refuse expectant mothers - during pregnancy, a woman’s mood and desires can change several times a day so that she does not even have time to voice them. And if relatives do not know about these desires, then the pregnant woman becomes despondent, which negatively affects the child in the womb.

All these superstitions apply to early and late pregnancy.

Pregnant and alcohol

Bad habits

The health of the unborn child largely depends on the health of the pregnant woman. That is why during pregnancy experts recommend giving up all existing bad habits.

During pregnancy in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimester it is strictly prohibited:

• - negatively affects all systems of the pregnant woman’s body and at the same time the placenta cannot protect the child from the harmful effects of nicotine. All harmful substances and toxins penetrate the child through the bloodstream and negatively affect the development of his internal organs. The consequences of smoking during pregnancy are delays in the development of the baby, his small height and weight, and diseases of the pulmonary system. Nicotine can also cause placental abruption, frozen pregnancy and premature birth.
• Drinking alcohol - alcohol reaches the fetus through the circulatory system. The consequences of regular consumption of alcohol-containing products by a pregnant woman provokes developmental delays in the child. This is especially noticeable when the baby reaches two years of age; he has a small head circumference, narrow eyes and a flat, sloping face.
• Taking narcotic drugs - such drugs are strictly prohibited not only for pregnant women, but for absolutely all people. They cause pathologies of all internal organs and the baby’s heart, abnormal development of the skeleton, bone and muscle tissue, kidney disease, liver and genitourinary system. But the worst thing is that a child born to a drug addict mother already has a drug addiction.

Drinking alcohol, smoking and taking drugs are categorical prohibitions during pregnancy, which are not superstitions and should definitely be avoided.

Pregnant and fast food

What not to eat

The development, well-being and growth of a child in the womb largely depends on what his mother eats. In the early and late stages of pregnancy, many women's taste preferences change, so it is important to pay attention to which foods should be removed from the diet:

• • Fatty, fried foods and smoked foods - the body of the expectant mother experiences enormous stress. At the same time, eating fatty and smoked foods negatively affects the functioning of the liver, kidneys, and urinary system, and can also lead to the development. Regarding smoked meats, there is interesting information that the “liquid smoke” used during the preparation of these products can lead to the development of oncology.
  • Stabilizers and preservatives - help suppress the synthesis of proteins necessary for the proper development of the fetus.
  • and black tea - drinking these drinks during pregnancy is controversial. Aromatic coffee with cream will help normalize your well-being. But if you do, then you should absolutely not drink coffee. In addition, this drink causes dehydration, which is also undesirable during pregnancy. Strong black tea increases blood pressure, so it is not advisable for hypertensive patients to drink it.
  • Flavor enhancers, various additives and colorings - expectant mothers need natural vitamins, which are sufficient in, and. But it is undesirable to use chemical substitutes.
  • Chocolate - a small amount of chocolate cannot harm a pregnant woman. But if you consume it in large quantities, it can provoke.
  • - Eating mushrooms during pregnancy is undesirable. This is due to the fact that there is a possibility even if the mushrooms were collected independently.
  • Carbonated drinks - drinking such drinks can cause flatulence and bloating. In addition, they may contain preservatives and sweeteners, which will lead to an increase in allergic reactions.

During pregnancy, it is important to eat properly so that your diet includes a sufficient amount of fresh fruits and vegetables that will enrich the body with vitamins. At the same time, it is necessary to focus on your taste, since with toxicosis, the expectant mother may eat food that is unusual for her, just to cope with the malaise.

Pregnant woman doing sports

Lifestyle

If before conception the expectant mother led an active lifestyle, now she needs to adjust her life position. What is prohibited to do during pregnancy:

• You should not do any repairs, especially in late pregnancy. This is due to the ability of toxins and paint to disappear only after a year.
• You cannot take all the medications, since most of them are prohibited for pregnant women. If you are overcome by the disease, you should go to the doctor to prescribe adequate treatment. And vaccinations during pregnancy should also not be done.
• Lift heavy objects - the maximum weight allowed is 5 kg.
• Engage in strenuous sports. To be in good physical shape, it is recommended to use.
• You should not sleep on your back, as in this case the vena cava located under the uterus is compressed.
• Engage in extreme sports or perform any activity that results in an adrenaline rush.
• Watch horror films, as they negatively affect the nervous system and, as a result, lead to anxiety in the child in the womb.
• You should not join if there is a risk of miscarriage. Anal sex is also not always allowed.
• Wear high-heeled shoes, as walking on them increases the risk of falling and injury, and can also lead to the development of varicose veins.
• You should not fly on an airplane, especially in late pregnancy. During a flight, pressure changes occur that can lead to miscarriage.
• It is not recommended to wear synthetic underwear; it is better to give preference to cotton.
• Mosquito sprays should not be used as the toxins will enter the baby's bloodstream.

As you can see, there are not so many prohibitions. If you follow all of the above recommendations, you can minimize the development of complications during pregnancy and give birth to a healthy baby!

Video: What pregnant women should not eat

If you have had bleeding or spotting in the early months of pregnancy, your doctor will likely advise you to abstain from sex until at least 14 weeks pregnant. If you haven’t had any discharge and everything is going fine, then you don’t have to injure yourself at all in making love.

You can have sex during pregnancy right up to the birth itself, and there will be no harm to the baby. After you have an orgasm, you may feel the baby moving in your stomach, but this is not because he is uncomfortable or ill, he just hears his mother's heart begin to beat faster.

Many pregnant women do not feel their best in the early stages, with nausea, fatigue, stress and anxiety. Sexual desire does not arise so often. In the later stages, the woman begins to feel much better, and therefore sexual attraction to her returns.

Men also sometimes do not want to have sex with a pregnant woman. This is largely due to the fact that representatives of the stronger half of humanity are afraid of harming their beloved and baby. In some cases, this may also be due to the fact that men are not attracted to the changed appearance of a pregnant woman.

The longer the pregnancy, the more uncomfortable the position in which the man is on top will be. In this case, you will have to experiment, you need to choose a position in which both you and your partner will enjoy.

In the third trimester, caresses should be more gentle, otherwise you may feel discomfort. In the later stages, you also need to take into account the fact that when a woman has sex, the hormone oxytocin can enter her blood, which prepares the cervix for childbirth. Directly in the last weeks, this hormone can trigger the appearance of contractions. Ejaculation also contributes to premature birth. The fact is that semen contains prostaglandins, which cause uterine contractions. If your pregnancy is progressing normally, then this does not pose any risks.

If you have previously had miscarriages or premature births, your doctor may advise you not to have sex in the last trimester of pregnancy.

In some cases, a woman may refuse sex completely. In principle, this is normal. The main thing is to discuss the current situation with your partner so that there are no offenses or misunderstandings between you.

Can I have sex and will it harm my baby?

Surely, every pregnant woman asks a serious question: “Can I have sex and will it harm my baby? There are two points of view on this important issue. Some believe that it is better not to have sex, others say that it is even necessary.

Statistics show that in European countries pregnant women need to have sex at least once a week. Russian experts recommend that a woman analyze how far along she is.

And now the long-awaited moment has come - the pregnancy test shows a positive result. It seems that everything else is simple - nine months will pass and the most important meeting in a woman’s life will take place. Meeting her child. But before that, you still have to live a small, separate life, where you need to follow a routine and think first of all about the interests of the future baby. But you need to be careful not only in routine matters, but also in intimate matters.

Is it possible for pregnant women to have sex in the early stages?

After all, it seems that what prevents a woman in the first trimester of pregnancy from living a normal, full life and fully enjoying the joys of sex? Nothing, but only if the expectant mother feels normal and comfortable.

To have sex or not to have sex in the early stages of pregnancy is a purely non-standard question that cannot be answered with a definite answer. There are no external signs yet, that is, a huge belly. But there are changes in the soul and worldview of a pregnant woman. It is not one’s own desires that come to the fore, but the interests of the little lump that grows inside day after day.

Doctors advise to refrain from violent sex and choose calmer leisure time. The first three months of pregnancy are a dangerous period and miscarriages most often occur in the short term. From a medical point of view, having sex during the first twelve to fourteen weeks of pregnancy is contraindicated for those expectant mothers who have health problems, such as placenta previa, cervical insufficiency, threatened miscarriage, sexually transmitted diseases or bleeding. In addition, if a woman feels unwell, suffering from toxicosis, dizziness, pain in the lower back or chest, then she is unlikely to think about sex. In this case, the man should not be offended and demand that his marital duty be fulfilled, but should support his beloved.

If everything is in order, there are no health concerns, there is no threat to the baby, the mood is at the highest level and you want to have sex - then there are no taboos, you just need to choose positions that are comfortable for two partners. It should be noted that it is not advisable for a pregnant woman to lie on her back. So, goodbye missionary, and hello variety. Although even here you need to be as careful as possible so as not to squeeze your stomach. After all, having sex in the early months of pregnancy has its advantages. This has a good effect on the elasticity of the muscles of the uterus and vagina, women experience a stronger orgasm, there is no need to think about using protection and you can relax as much as possible. And sperm also feed the embryo, so to speak, with the necessary nutrients, which helps its development.

When should you not have sex during pregnancy?

Whatever it is, it is important to consult with your doctor, do an ultrasound on time and listen to your own desires. After all, if the mother is happy, the baby will be happy too. It’s not for nothing that they say that only the woman who is loved can get true pleasure from sex, and all because it begins and ends in a woman’s head. Therefore, it is very important to have and feel complete psychological comfort during carnal pleasures. And not only in the early stages of pregnancy.

In the first trimester of pregnancy, a woman does not experience strong sexual desire for her man. This is due to the restructuring of the body and its adaptation to new conditions. Toxicosis also plays an important role, as well as the psychological characteristics of the pregnant woman. The thing is that a woman, afraid of harming her child, simply refuses love pleasures. But human physiology, on the contrary, recommends regular sex in the early stages of pregnancy, since it is during this period that a woman’s intimate place becomes the most sensitive. The period between 14 and 28 weeks is characterized by the pregnant woman’s adaptation to the changes occurring in her body. It is because of this hormonal explosion that a pregnant woman has a greater need for sexual relations.

But there is still a period when you need to be careful and be more attentive to your feelings. In the later stages, pain may appear during sexual intercourse, this indicates an incorrectly chosen position. In this case, it is better to stop everything and postpone it to a more suitable moment for your body.

If pain occurs in the early stages of pregnancy, of course, in this case it is necessary to be wary and identify the cause of this pain. In addition to all this, from the 38th week the pregnant woman begins to prepare for childbirth. After all, every wrong movement can provoke them and cause contractions.

Women who are about to have a caesarean section should be especially careful. A ban on sexual relations can only be given to you by your attending physician after numerous examinations and a thorough examination.

Marital relations during pregnancy

Many expectant fathers claim that they are ready to completely refuse to have sex during their wife’s pregnancy, so that God forbid? do not harm the fetus.

A fairly well-known magazine about relationships between spouses, the Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy, decided to publish the results of a sociological survey that was able to reveal the real attitude of the male sex on the frequency of intimate contacts with his wife during pregnancy. It turns out that the men’s answers go against all known stereotypes about their constant dependence on sex and their insatiability.

Approximately 81% of respondents are not only ready, in general, to reduce the frequency of sexual relations with their pregnant wife, but often they themselves are the initiators of this abstinence. Expectant fathers refrain from sex during pregnancy, because they are really afraid of harming the health of the unborn baby, or of provoking premature birth. Men also claim that such abstinence does not in any way affect the strength of the marital relationship.

This study involved 105 guys from 20 to 46 years old and their other halves were nine months pregnant at the time of this survey. Sexual relations during pregnancy

Experts, commenting on these results, explain that when pregnancy proceeds without any complications, this is not a reason to completely abandon the intimacy of the spouses, but it is advisable to choose positions so that there is no strong certain pressure on the spouse.

In order to resolve the issue with her husband about the lack of intimacy, a woman simply needs to talk to him and explain everything. But if the husband still has not stopped doubting, then you can take him to your specialist, where she is constantly monitored during pregnancy.

Pathologies during pregnancy when sex is contraindicated

Here are a number of pathologies when having sex during pregnancy is strictly prohibited:

• presence of an infectious disease;

• threat of miscarriage;

• venereal disease in a man;

• leakage of amniotic fluid;

• bleeding in the uterus;

• placental abruption...

From the moment her interesting situation becomes known, those around the pregnant woman turn into advisers. Recommendations on what expectant mothers can and cannot do are coming from all sides. Let's try to put together useful tips for those expecting the birth of a child.

What can expectant mothers do during pregnancy?

Pregnancy is one of the most important periods in a woman’s life. The expectant mother has a huge responsibility for the life inside her. The health of the baby who is about to be born largely depends on whether a pregnant woman adheres to the recommendations of doctors and experienced mothers. The experience of several generations shows that the second trimester is most comfortable; it is subject to fewer restrictions. What can women who are expecting a child do?

Visit to a beauty salon

The desire to take care of oneself is natural for the fair sex, and pregnancy is not a reason to forget about cosmetic procedures. But do not forget about some nuances while carrying a baby:

1. Eyebrow tattooing saves the time of applying makeup, however, in the first trimester you need to abandon this invasive intervention, the body is already under severe stress. During pregnancy, the sensitivity of the skin increases and it is impossible to predict the body's reaction to an already unpleasant procedure. If you decide to tattoo your eyebrows, first consult your gynecologist. If approved, contact a specialist who will select a paint suitable for expectant mothers. Be prepared that due to hormones the result will not be what you expected. Not every woman can take care of her eyebrows after tattooing, especially if pregnancy is difficult. It’s better not to experiment if you’ve never done permanent makeup before. Contraindications are a tendency to allergic reactions, hypertension, irritation and rashes on the facial skin.
2. The myth about the dangers of cutting hair during pregnancy has long been debunked; it does not harm the woman, much less the fetus. On the contrary, confidence in your own beauty improves your mood and has a positive effect on your well-being. But schedule a visit to the hairdresser in the morning so that you do not have to inhale harmful fumes after other clients who came for procedures using chemicals - coloring or permanent waving.
3. Expectant mothers are allowed to color their hair and nails, but not earlier than 14 weeks from the day of conception. In the first three months, the vital organs and functions of the child’s body are formed, and any interference in the process can lead to negative consequences. From the second trimester you can dye your hair, but choose dyes without ammonia. Be sure to read the instructions and follow the recommendations exactly. Some paints are only allowed from the third trimester. You can paint your nails, but the composition of the varnish for which is less harmful. This coating method is convenient because the dyes have a weak odor compared to others, and the paint on the nails lasts longer. Try to get to the specialist’s salon or home before other visitors in order to avoid exposure to toxic substances as much as possible. Contraindications to dyeing hair and nails are considered to be severe toxicosis, poor health of the expectant mother and open wounds on the skin of her head and hands.
4. A very popular procedure, and it is allowed for pregnant women. But due to the toxicosis of the first months, it is advisable to postpone it to a later date. Artificial material and glue provoke attacks of nausea and possible allergic reactions. Enhanced hormone production greatly reduces the time until the next correction by about 3 times, to 14–20 days versus the usual 5–6 weeks. Shortly before giving birth, the process of eyelash extensions is complicated by the fact that you have to sit or lie for a long time without changing your position, and this is difficult in the third trimester. Some masters allow a five-minute rest to warm up, but this delays the process even more.
5. , or sugar depilation will be the best choice for getting rid of unwanted hair on the body during pregnancy. If you have not had sugaring done before, postpone getting acquainted with the procedure until the baby is born and lactation has improved. If you have experience with sugar depilation, contact a specialist who has already removed hair on your body and has an understanding of your reaction to pain and the composition of the depilatory mixture. In the first 14 weeks, it is advisable not to take risks, since the low pain threshold characteristic of this period provokes miscarriage due to severe stress. From the second trimester and especially in the last months before childbirth, sugar depilation is relatively safe. But this procedure also has several contraindications. Sugaring will not be done if a woman has:
   • varicose veins;
   • infectious disease (for example, herpes);
   • dermatitis and psoriasis;
   • diabetes;
   • disorders in the cardiovascular system and thyroid function;
   • threat of miscarriage or other pregnancy pathologies;
   • neoplasms on the skin (condylomas or moles);
   • tendency to allergic reactions.

The likelihood of refusing to do sugaring increases if you turn to an unfamiliar cosmetologist who does not know you and does not know how your skin reacts to sugar paste.

Of all the procedures allowed for pregnant women, I would replace tattooing with eyebrow tinting. Firstly, this method does not require anesthesia, which is undesirable during pregnancy due to its effect on the nervous system. And secondly, getting dye under the skin during tattooing can cause severe allergies, whereas when dyeing, the dye comes into contact only with the outer skin. My sister recently went to see a hairdresser, but due to hormonal levels, the henna literally dripped from the hairs, and I had to use ammonia-free eyebrow dye. Anka walks around looking beautiful and happy with her appearance. I decided to dye my eyebrows instead of tattooing, after reading many articles and consulting with a doctor, at 22 weeks of pregnancy.

Having sex during pregnancy

It is better to ask your doctor about this without hesitation. When asked whether it is possible to have sex during pregnancy, most doctors will answer in the affirmative. Provided the woman feels normal and there is no bleeding, of course. In the first months, the desire for intimacy in many women decreases significantly, but by the end of pregnancy it returns. If you feel the baby moving when orgasm occurs, this is due to the fact that the baby feels the mother’s heartbeat racing, but he is comfortable, don’t worry. The main thing is to choose poses that are comfortable for both partners. It is advisable to keep stormy intimate relationships to a minimum. If there is no threat of miscarriage, toxicosis is rare and the attacks are weak, sexual relations are allowed until the birth itself, but from the 38th week the woman’s body is already preparing to give birth to the baby and incorrect movements can cause contractions. Women who are about to have a caesarean section need to be especially careful.

To obtain satisfaction in cases where sexual intercourse causes pain or is temporarily contraindicated, you can engage in masturbation. This is even useful, as blood circulation in the pelvic organs increases, which has a positive effect on the development of the fetus. For women who find it easier to achieve orgasm by stimulating the clitoris than through vaginal penetration, masturbation allows them to quickly achieve sexual release and release happiness hormones - endorphins - into the blood. But with uterine hypertonicity and the threat of miscarriage, it is better to avoid intimate relationships and self-satisfaction.

Video: sex during pregnancy

Swimming during pregnancy

Hygienic procedures are useful for all people, but pregnant women can safely only take a shower at any stage of pregnancy, and it is better to avoid water temperatures above 40 °C. Subject to precautions, it is allowed to swim in the bathtub, swimming pools and open reservoirs.

Pregnant women should take bath procedures for a maximum of 20 minutes, and the water temperature should be 37–39 °C. You need to lay a non-slip mat on the bottom of the bathtub so that it is comfortable to get up, and it is better to bathe when there is someone close to you at home who will come to the rescue in case of dizziness or other health problems.
Water is an excellent relaxant, helping to quickly calm down, lift your spirits, and forget about worries, something that expectant mothers often suffer from.

It is useful, like any feasible physical activity. But don't forget the following recommendations:

• do not swim in places where epidemic safety is in question - study the signs on the beach. At swimming pools, make sure that medical certificates are required from visitors. Immunity during pregnancy decreases and the risk of bacterial infection increases;
• try not to swim alone, especially if the body of water is unfamiliar, so that in case of danger they will have time to help you;
• equip yourself correctly. The swimsuit that fit before pregnancy becomes less comfortable every month. Buy a one-piece swimsuit made of stretchy material with wide straps. Don't forget about a cap to protect your hair from water disinfection additives. Take care of non-slip shoes;
• take care of your skin before and after swimming to avoid dryness and stretch marks;
• stay in open water for no longer than 10 minutes. In the pool - on the recommendation of a doctor, but it is better not to exceed 25–30 minutes. The optimal water temperature is 22–27 °C;
• Pregnant women are prescribed fractional meals, so before bathing, eat light cottage cheese, and after, for example, a banana. Bring snacks with you.

Contraindications for swimming in the sea, river, lake or pool are similar - pregnancy occurring with pathologies, severe toxicosis, exacerbation of inflammatory, infectious and neurological diseases. It is undesirable to swim in open bodies of water with stagnant water - ponds; the danger of infection with bacteria in them is higher than in running water. Be sure to consult with your doctor whether you personally can bathe somewhere other than your own bath.

Visiting the bathhouse in the first trimester is prohibited. From 14 weeks, baths are allowed, but only for those who visited them before pregnancy, and if pregnancy proceeds without pathologies. But bath procedures for expectant mothers have more contraindications than obvious benefits. You should not visit steam rooms if you have the following health problems:

• cardiovascular diseases;
• preeclampsia (the most complex degree of toxicosis);
• danger of miscarriage;
• acute inflammatory processes;
• undergone surgical interventions.

Sunbathing and solariums

Basking in the sun's rays is beneficial for pregnant women. This normalizes hormonal levels and metabolism, especially in the last stages of pregnancy, and improves blood quality. But you should avoid being in direct sunlight between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., as ultraviolet radiation is especially harmful at this time. Solariums have become popular relatively recently, and there is no reliable information about its safety. Therefore, doctors sometimes allow it, but do not get full approval.

In the first trimester, any tanning is undesirable, as it reduces the content of folic acid in the body, which negatively affects the formation of the fetal nervous system. Later, even women with dark skin need to use creams with a high degree of protection against ultraviolet radiation. Sunbathing is contraindicated for people with problems in the circulatory and cardiac systems, as well as for those whose body is covered with many moles.
Sunbathing is allowed before 11 am and after 17 pm, remembering to cover your head, shoulders and stomach from the sun's rays

If the air temperature is above 30 °C, it is better not to leave the house. At any time, you should be in the shade, covering your head and shoulders with a wide-brimmed hat. It is better not to appear in the sun with your stomach uncovered and avoid lying on the ground, sand or stones, but use a sun lounger with a sun umbrella.

One of my friends, in the 23rd week of pregnancy, went on vacation with a group of people to a lake not far from our city. Sveta was burned and covered with pigment spots. For 7 years now we have been calling her a giraffe in memory of that trip. Fortunately, this did not affect my daughter, but not everyone is so lucky.

Train rides, plane flights

Up to 12 weeks, the baby’s vital organs and systems are formed, and hormonal changes occur in the woman’s body. Outwardly, this manifests itself as toxicosis, a frequent desire to sleep, a tendency to dizziness and fainting. According to statistics, a large percentage of miscarriages occur in the first trimester, so it is better not to plan long trips and flights at this time, but to let the body get used to the new state. With a decrease in immunity that accompanies any pregnancy, it is dangerous to be in crowded places, especially for a long time. And airports and train stations are crowded.

The period from 12 to 28 weeks is considered favorable for traveling by train or plane. The toxicosis of the first trimester has passed, and for now the small belly does not restrict movement. But even if a woman feels great, it is imperative to visit a doctor and get tested before the trip. At 20 weeks, a routine ultrasound is usually performed, and based on the results of the examination, the gynecologist will tell you whether you can go on a trip.
When fastening, make sure the belt is under your stomach and not pinching it.

Before planning a trip if you are 29 weeks pregnant or beyond, discuss with your doctor whether you have any contraindications. Airlines have different requirements for pregnant passengers, and it is better to find out about them in advance. It is preferable to travel on the lower berths on the train. At 36 weeks, the pregnancy is already considered full-term and labor can begin at any time. It is advisable at this moment to be closer to the maternity hospital, and not on a train or plane. Absolute contraindications for flying are:

• third degree anemia - less than 70 grams of hemoglobin per liter of blood;
• complete placenta previa;
• severe form of toxicosis.

Whatever transport you choose, go on the road with an accompanying person.

Physical exercise

Pregnancy and childbirth itself require a lot of physical training, so pregnant women are recommended to do as much physical exercise as possible. When you consult a doctor, you can get advice on what sets of exercises to perform to train weakened pelvic muscles, improve blood circulation in the placenta and prevent hypoxia in the child.

Fitness is useful for pregnant women, but the load depends on the period of gestation. During the first 3 months of pregnancy, it is better to avoid intense movements, which can prevent the embryo from settling in the uterus. The second trimester requires you to replace exercises lying on your back with those performed in a lateral position. In recent months, a growing belly has interfered with active activities, but you should not give up fitness. Exercises on a fitball are recommended to help relax your back and strengthen your arms and chest.
Exercises on a fitball are very useful for expectant mothers, as they help stretch their back muscles.

Impaired balance makes cycling difficult during pregnancy. Women have difficulty getting on and off the bike, which can lead to falls. Therefore, it is recommended to replace cycling with stationary cycling, especially in recent months.

But in comfortable shoes and clothes. With each month, the intensity of training should be reduced, ideally moving to a leisurely pace.

Excessive physical activity is absolutely prohibited for the following indications:

• severe gestosis in early and late stages;
• cramping pain in the lower abdomen in a woman after playing sports;
• spontaneous miscarriages, missed pregnancies or premature births in the past;
• pronounced severe form of toxicosis;
• any acute disease or exacerbation of chronic disease;
• pregnancy-related hypertension;
• threat of miscarriage and bleeding;
• cervical deformity;
• intrauterine growth retardation;
• placenta previa or low placenta;
• acute febrile conditions.

Allowed postures while a pregnant woman is resting

The well-being of mother and child is interconnected, which is why proper rest during pregnancy is so important. Until the second trimester, there are practically no restrictions on sleeping positions. The only thing that can cause discomfort when lying on your stomach is the sensitivity of the mammary glands.

From the 13th week, it is best to sleep on the left side of the body, avoiding sleeping with the stomach down, when the baby feels pressure. Since it is difficult to lie in one position for a long time, you are allowed to briefly roll over onto your back or right side.
Lying on your left side allows you to minimize the load on your spine during sleep.

By the beginning of the third trimester, the fetus has already gained significant weight, so sleeping on the back is dangerous because the vena cava is compressed by the mass of the uterus. This leads to circulatory problems and other health problems. Sleeping on your left side or in a reclining position with a pillow under your lower back will be the best solution in the last weeks of pregnancy.

My pregnant sister sleeps on a special pillow that our mother sewed using a pattern from the Internet. Of course, we could buy it ready-made, but it’s hard to refuse caring relatives. The only thing Anka complains to me about is that she is very hot from the padding polyester inside the pillow, but overall she is happy.

When sitting on a chair, make sure that your back fits tightly against the backrest, and your legs stand straight, resting on your toes and heels. If the seat does not have a backrest, place your buttocks on the seat. Relax your legs and buttocks as much as possible.

On large flat surfaces such as a sofa or floor, it is allowed to sit in a Turkish position. With your legs crossed underneath you, make sure your body weight is resting on your seat bones and your back is straight. But don’t sit like that for longer than 20–25 minutes.
The baby in the womb grows and begins to kick and give signals if her position is uncomfortable for him

You cannot sit cross-legged; this position disrupts blood circulation in the lower extremities and leads to varicose veins. From the second half of pregnancy, it is dangerous to squat; this can cause premature birth by the pressure of the already quite large fetus on the uterus.

Can women push during pregnancy?

Every person who has at least once encountered the problem of constipation knows how difficult it is to go big at this time. Proctologists do not recommend pushing to anyone, especially pregnant women. This can cause bleeding and prolapse of hemorrhoids. If you push too hard, a miscarriage may occur due to contractions of the uterus. If you experience frequent constipation, you should immediately consult a doctor who will prescribe a laxative that is approved for pregnant women.

When I was expecting a child, I tried to do without using chemicals, which include most laxatives, even if they contained natural ingredients. She saved herself from constipation with apples from her own garden and, oddly enough, crackers with raisins. Usually crackers are recommended for diarrhea, but my body perceived them differently. Perhaps it will also help someone if they eat 2 small crackers with raisins, a tasty mild laxative.

Other issues of concern to expectant mothers

Visiting a dentist for dental treatment is not only possible, but also necessary. Local anesthesia does not have a significant effect on mother and child. But it is better to refuse X-rays before the baby is born.

Taking care of your dental health is very important during pregnancy. The load on the body is great, and your teeth may simply begin to crumble. The dentist will give you advice on how to minimize unwanted consequences for your teeth.

You can use a computer while pregnant, but follow the rules. If the job requires it, you will have to sit at it for as long as required to perform job duties. In other cases, it is better to minimize your time at the computer.

What not to do for pregnant women

In addition to what is completely or conditionally permitted for expectant mothers, there are prohibited actions.

Smoking

There is an opinion among people that giving up this bad habit is more dangerous than smoking during pregnancy. Even doctors do not advise stopping abruptly, but delaying it harms the unborn baby. Women who smoke have a high probability of giving birth to a child prematurely, with insufficient weight and developmental pathologies. In the future, children may have problems with the respiratory system, including asthma. Sudden death syndrome often occurs in such babies. You need to quit smoking as early as possible and preferably even at the stage of pregnancy planning.
Women who dream of a healthy baby need to give up bad habits

Alcohol

Alcoholic drinks are contraindicated for pregnant women without exception. Despite the advice you get to drink a couple of sips of red wine, you shouldn’t do this. Alcohol has a destructive effect on the body of an unborn baby. There is a lag in the physical and intellectual development of children whose mothers drank alcohol in any form during pregnancy.

Poor nutrition

When going to have a snack, remember the foods that pregnant women should not eat:

• cinnamon, basil and parsley negatively affect the digestive system;
• raw eggs (with the exception of quail), dried fish, sushi and shellfish carry Salmonella bacteria and helminths (adults and larvae);
• smoked meats and undercooked meat contain bacteria that can be completely removed only at high temperatures during cooking or stewing;
• Dairy products are also not all healthy. Brie, feta and other soft cheeses are made from unpasteurized milk, which is undesirable during pregnancy. For the same reason, ayran should be excluded from the diet;
• vegetables and fruits require thorough washing; it would be a good idea to pour boiling water over them before eating;
• caffeine increases blood pressure, which is contraindicated when carrying a child; you can safely replace coffee with chicory, and brew weak tea;
• It is better not to consume citrus fruits, strawberries, exotic fruits and vegetables, nuts and chocolate, especially uncontrollably. In the future, these products may cause allergies in the child;
• fast food - various crackers, chips and food in fast food restaurants should be added to your personal blacklist. It is also best to minimize the consumption of products containing flavor and odor enhancers, dyes, thickeners and stabilizers.

Vegetables and herbs contain many vitamins, but they need to be thoroughly washed under running water, and at the end it is advisable to rinse them with boiling water.

Stress

It was found that in response to stress, the human body produces special hormones - glucocorticoids. The result of a frequent increase in their concentration in the blood of a pregnant woman can be pathologies of the placenta and impaired development of the child.
Stress affects not only mental health, but also a woman’s physical condition is at risk, as the body’s protective functions are weakened

Stress poses a danger throughout pregnancy. In the early stages, stressful situations provoke miscarriage, and later can cause labor to occur prematurely.

My son was born earlier than expected. The reason for this was the stress of the crisis that gripped the country in the fall of 2008. The car-building plant, where many of my relatives worked, was left without orders, and my relatives, including my husband, were without work. Out of uncertainty about the future, I lashed out at my loved ones. As a result, the stress completely consumed me, and I gave birth to my son 5 weeks before the expected due date. There could be no mistake in setting the deadline; it was confirmed by 3 ultrasounds. Doctors initially assumed that I smoked and thereby provoked premature birth. Then a family friend who was monitoring my pregnancy explained the situation to them. I still remember the disapproving looks of the midwife and neonatologist. Caring for my baby helped me get out of depression, but it’s better not to push myself into it. Be distracted by positive emotions, walk in the fresh air, meet friends, but don’t let stress get the better of you.

Video: stress during pregnancy

What else should expectant mothers avoid?

Wearing high heels is dangerous, as it leads to swelling of the feet, possible injuries when falling and problems with the spine after childbirth.

You need to dress in spacious clothes made of natural fabric that do not restrict movement.

Self-medication can lead to irreversible consequences; you should not be treated without consulting a doctor.

X-rays should not be taken due to the risk of radiation exposure, which can cause fetal malformations. At least in the first trimester. Vaccinations, particularly against smallpox or malaria, are prohibited for pregnant women due to the impact on the development of the child in the womb.

Even one woman's pregnancies can be different. Therefore, there is simply no universal advice on all issues; each case should be considered individually by the attending physician. Seek advice from the gynecologist in charge of your pregnancy in a timely manner and follow his recommendations.