Things to Avoid during your pregnancy

Alcohol - The consumption of alcohol during pregnancy can lead to serious birth conditions such as Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS). The baby can experience growth and developmental problems. Since close response effects have not been evaluated, it is best to avoid alcohol altogether while pregnant.

Caffeine - One serving of caffeine (150 mg) is known to be safe in most cases. Some physicians recommend avoiding caffeine during pregnancy because it can cause issues in pregnancy like low birth weight and preterm delivery.

Hair Treatments - Such a small amount of hair dye is absorbed through the skin while coloring, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states that it is probably safe to use hair dyes while pregnant. The FDA recommends the following: wear gloves, apply dye as quickly as possible and rinse scalp thoroughly when finished. Some physicians recommend avoiding treatments in the first trimester.

Fish - The FDA has guidelines that detail which fish have the highest levels of mercury. Some fish are higher than others, but as a rule of thumb, the longer the fish lives, the higher the levels. Cooked salmon, shrimp, tuna, cod, and catfish in smaller quantities are considered okay. Avoid fish like swordfish, king mackerel, smoked seafood, and raw shellfish during pregnancy.

Deli Meat, Raw eggs, Unpasteurized Cheese, and Pate - Before eating, heat deli meat until it’s steaming or avoid it altogether. Check all cheese, as well as Caesar dressing, mayonnaise, and custard for unpasteurized ingredients. These may contain listeria, which can cause infection or blood poisoning in your baby, or even miscarriage.

Paint - Want to paint the new nursery? Go for it. Ventilate well and wear gloves. Avoid oil-based paints and latex paints that contain ethylene glycol ethers or biocides, as well as any that contain mercury or lead. Instead use a water-based paint. Old paint often contains lead, so leave stripping and paint removal to someone else.

Hot Tubs, Saunas, and Steam Baths - Becoming overheated during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, increases the risk of birth defects. Pregnant women should never let their body temperature rise above roughly 102 degrees Fahrenheit, so stay clear of the hot tub, sauna, and steam bath.