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Being a mom takes a lot of compromise and tradeoffs. Your entire pregnancy will be your first test of motherhood. As your body adjusts, you may have to change or limit your daily activities to ensure the health and safety of you and your unborn baby. The following is a list of activities that you should avoid during pregnancy:- Racquet sports- Your changing balance affects rapid movements in sports such as badminton, tennis, or racquetball. This can increase your risk of falling.
- Downhill snow skiing- Downhill skiing poses a risk of severe injuries and hard falls.
- In-line skating, gymnastics, horseback riding Your balance is affected during pregnancy and there is a risk of crashing or falling.
- Water skiing, surfing, diving- Hitting the water with great force can be harmful. Taking a fall at fast speeds could harm you or your baby.
- Contact sports- Avoid playing fast-paced team sports such as hockey, soccer, basketball, and volleyball. Collisions or falls could result in harm to both you and your baby.
- Scuba diving- High pressure from the water puts your baby at risk for decompression sickness. As you surface, air bubbles can form in your bloodstream, which can be very dangerous to both you and your baby. Some studies report a higher incidence of birth defects and preterm birth among women who dive during pregnancy.
- Mountaineering and hot air ballooning- The change in oxygen levels at higher altitudes may trigger premature labor.
- Hang gliding, bungee jumping, and skydiving- These are considered extreme sports due to their high risk of injury. The high altitudes and free fall are especially dangerous to the baby.
- Lying flat on your back or stomach- After 16 weeks of pregnancy, this is not recommended as it can cut off proper circulation to the baby.
- Hot tubs, saunas, and hot baths- This can be dangerous to the baby, as overheating has been linked to birth defects. If you enjoy taking baths, take a warm bath instead of a hot bath.
- Paint and other strong fumes- Inhaling any strong fumes or chemicals can cause breathing problems, brain damage, and other birth defects to the baby.
- Changing the cat litter- Cat feces can carry a parasite that causes taxoplasmosis, an infection that is not serious for you but can pose a great risk to your baby. Experts recommend that pregnant women avoid emptying the cat litter tray. Someone else should ideally empty it daily to remove the possible parasites from your presence. If you have to do it yourself, always wear rubber gloves and wash your hands thoroughly after changing the litter.
- Heavy lifting- Avoid lifting weight greater than 25 pounds. Lifting heavy amounts has been linked to miscarriages and premature birth.
- X-rays- The radiation from x-rays can cause birth defects. Avoid getting x-rays during pregnancy at all costs. If it is absolutely necessary, be sure to let the technician know that you are pregnant so that extra precautions can be taken.
- Waterslides and amusement park rides- The forceful landing and sudden acceleration or deceleration could harm the baby. Most rides at fairs and amusement parks have disclaimer signs warning pregnant women not to go on them.
This list may seem like a lot to give up, but remember that it is only for nine months and the reward of a healthy mom and baby will last a lifetime.
If you have questions or concerns about activities that you partake in, be sure to check with your healthcare provider.
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