2621 YLH Substances to avoid during your pregnancy
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Being pregnant is wonderful,
but it does mean that looking after
your health and the health of your baby
has become even more important.
Whilst you are pregnant,
there are some substances
that you should really try to avoid.
Which ones are they
and what damage can they do?
Firstly, it really is important that you
don’t smoke when you're pregnant.
This is because carbon monoxide,
nicotine and other toxic chemicals
from cigarettes cross the placenta
and go directly into the baby’s blood stream,
so in reality, your baby smokes with you.
This reduces the oxygen
and nourishment it gets
and puts it at risk of low birthweight,
premature birth and ultimately
could result in stillbirth.
The sooner you stop smoking
the better and there are some really helpful
local groups that will help you give up.
You can also have your
Carbon monoxide level tested.
Your midwife can give you more details,
so please do ask.
You also need to be careful
about what you drink.
Caffeine is a stimulant in tea, coffee,
and energy and cola drinks.
Too much caffeine should be avoided
as it is passed through your placenta
and may affect your baby.
Drinking alcohol increases the risk
of miscarriage and could affect
how your baby grows and develops,
potentially resulting in deformities
and problems with physical
and emotional development.
For these reasons you should
avoid drinking during your pregnancy.
You should also be very careful
about drugs and medication.
Only take medication prescribed by your GP.
Over-the-counter drugs should also be avoided
and street drugs should not be taken
as they will seriously harm both you and your baby.