Parenting Powerhouse by Parenting Genie

Smart Tips for a Safe and Healthy Pregnancy

• Parenting Genie

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How can expectant mothers navigate the minefield of pregnancy safety with confidence? On this episode of Parenting Powerhouse, our host Carey provides a comprehensive guide that promises to keep both you and your baby safe and healthy. From avoiding harmful bacteria in your diet to understanding the hidden dangers in skincare products, this episode is a must-listen for every expectant mother. We discuss why it's crucial to steer clear of raw or undercooked meats, eggs, and certain types of seafood, and we also highlight the importance of moderating caffeine intake while avoiding alcohol and smoking altogether.

But that’s not all; we also cover the benefits of safe exercise routines, like walking and prenatal yoga, while cautioning against high-impact sports. Kerry dives into the specifics of which skincare ingredients can pose risks during pregnancy and offers safer alternatives. Whether you’re a first-time mom or already have little ones, this episode is brimming with actionable advice and expert insights to guide you through a safe and healthy pregnancy. Don't miss this essential episode that ensures you’re making the best choices for you and your baby.

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Carey Donohoe:

Hi everyone. Today's podcast is titled Staying Safe During Pregnancy and what to Avoid. Welcome to Parenting Powerhouse, brought to you by Parenting Genie. I'm your, Carey, host, and today we're diving into an important topic for expectant mothers staying safe during pregnancy and what to avoid. Pregnancy is an exciting time, filled with anticipation and joy, but it also comes with a responsibility to ensure you and your baby stay healthy and safe. Today, we will talk about some key things to be aware of. So, whether you're a first-time mum or already have little ones, this episode is packed with helpful advice.

Carey Donohoe:

First up, let's talk about food safety during pregnancy. I know food is one of the things we often look forward to the most, but there are some foods you'll want to steer clear of. Foods like raw or undercooked meats, eggs and seafood can harbour harmful bacteria like salmonella, listeria or E coli, which can be dangerous for you and your baby. The last thing you want is to risk food poisoning while pregnant. Listeria, for example, can cross the placenta and cause serious complications, including miscarriage or preterm labor. Doctors recommend avoiding deli meats, pâtés and refrigerated smoked seafood unless steamed hot. And don't forget about unpasteurised dairy products. Things like brie, feta and blue cheese may be delicious, but unless they are made with pasteurised milk, they could contain harmful bacteria. Always check the labels. Labels. Or, better yet, when in doubt, skip it.

Carey Donohoe:

Now I know what you're thinking. But,Carey, what about my morning coffee? Do I have to give it up? The good news is that you don't have to quit caffeine entirely. But here's the deal Moderation is vital. Studies suggest that too much caffeine can increase the risk of miscarriage or low birth weight. The general recommendation is to limit caffeine to around 200 milligrams daily, roughly the equivalent of a medium coffee. So, yes, you can still enjoy that morning pick-me-up, but maybe swap out the second cup for something like a herbal tea or just a refreshing glass of water. And remember, caffeine isn't just in coffee, it's in tea, soda, chocolate and some medications. So keeping track of your total intake is a good idea.

Carey Donohoe:

We are moving on to something we should avoid altogether alcohol. Unfortunately, there is no known safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy. Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders which can cause lifelong physical, behavioral and intellectual disabilities. So the safest bet is to avoid alcohol entirely during your pregnancy. And while we're talking about things to avoid, we can't forget about smoking. Smoking is harmful not only to you, but also to your baby. It increases the risk of miscarriage, premature birth and low birth weight. It's also linked to developmental issues and sudden infant death syndrome. So if you're smoking, now is the perfect time to quit, not just for your health, but also for your babies.

Carey Donohoe:

Let's switch gears and talk about something many of us use daily skincare products. Did you know that certain skincare ingredients should be avoided during pregnancy? For example, products containing retinoids and salicylic acid can be harmful to your developing baby. Retinoids, which are found in many anti-aging products, have been linked to congenital disabilities when taken orally in high doses. While the topical risk is lower, it's still best to err on the side of caution and avoid them during pregnancy. Another common ingredient to be cautious about is benzoyl peroxide, often found in acne treatments. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to breakouts, but it's a good idea to consult your doctor or dermatologist to find pregnancy safe alternatives. Your skin might change during pregnancy and it's essential to keep yourself and your baby safe by using gentle and approved products for this time.

Carey Donohoe:

Now let's talk about exercise. Regular exercise during pregnancy is not only safe, but it's also beneficial for both you and your baby. It can help improve mood, boost energy levels and make labor easier. However, not all exercises are created equal. During pregnancy, it's essential to avoid high impact activities or those with risk of falling. Things like contact sports, skiing or high intensity interval training might need to be paused. Instead, focus on safe and low impact exercises like walking, swimming and prenatal yoga. These activities help keep you active without putting too much stress on your body, and the bonus they can help alleviate some common pregnancy discomforts like back pain and swelling back pain and swelling.

Carey Donohoe:

One last word of caution hot tubs and saunas. I know they sound relaxing, but they're off limits during pregnancy. Overheating, especially in the first trimester, can cause the risk of neural tube defects and other complications. If you want to relax, try a warm, but not too hot bath instead. It's safer for both you and your baby.

Carey Donohoe:

And speaking of safety, let's talk about something we don't often consider Household chemicals. Some of the products we use for cleaning our homes contain chemicals that can be harmful during pregnancy. Things like oven cleaners, certain paint thinners and pesticides are best avoided. Use natural alternatives like vinegar, baking soda and other gentle, eco-friendly products whenever possible. And when you do have to use strong chemicals, ensure a well-ventilated area and wear gloves to minimize exposure.

Carey Donohoe:

As we wrap up today's episode, remember these guidelines are general and every pregnancy differs. Always check with your health care provider for personalized advice based on your unique situation. They'll be able to guide you on what's safe and what should be avoided, based on your health and pregnancy history. So that's it for today. Thanks for joining me on Parenting Powerhouse. If you're expecting, tune in to our next episode, where we'll discuss safe travel during pregnancy and how to ensure you and your little one stay comfortable and secure on the go. For more tips and insights, visit our website at parentinggeniecomau. Remember we also have Genie Chat, which provides instant parenting answers from pregnancy to raising a five-year-old. Until then, take care of yourself and happy parenting.