At Royale Hayat Hospital we want to ensure that you feel safe during this vulnerable time so here are some Dos and DON’Ts to help you.

Food during pregnancy
Certain foods need to be avoided during pregnancy. Listeria, which is caused by uncooked meats, some seafood, unpasteurized milk and soft cheeses, can cause birth defects, miscarriages and stillbirth.

Cat litter
Toxoplasmosis is a disease which is contracted by contact with cat feces. It is spread by a parasite which can lead to miscarriages, stillbirth and birth defects.

Smoking
Smoking during pregnancy is definitely a no no. It has been linked to a low birth weight, miscarriage and premature birth in many different studies. Second hand smoke poses the same dangers during pregnancy, and should be avoided at all costs.

Caffeine
Some studies on caffeine during pregnancy have led to the conclusion that the two do not mix well together, as caffeine may increase the possibility of miscarriage and low birth weight. On the other hand, other studies have shown no link between the two. Obviously an excessive amount of caffeine is a bad idea regardless of pregnancy. An excessive amount of caffeine is generally regarded as over 300 milligrams per day. If you stay well clear of this figure, caffeine during pregnancy is less likely to cause problems.

Safety around the house
There are many hazards around the house for pregnant women, but almost all can be easily avoided. Try to stay clear of aerosol cans, industrial strength cleaners and fumes from paint, solvents and strippers. All of the above have been linked to birth defects and other pregnancy complications. It also pays to take it a little easier around certain parts of the house such as stair cases.

Body temperature
Keeping a moderate body temperature during pregnancy (especially during first trimester) is important as it may lead to birth defects. It is a good idea to keep an eye on your temperature during exercise and keep your fluids up. Things such as saunas and hot baths are not recommended during pregnancy.

Exercise
Exercise during pregnancy is recommended for most women, but only at a moderate pace. Women who participated in high impact exercise, weight lifting, contact sports, high altitude training or scuba diving before pregnancy, will have to readjust their routines. Walking is highly recommended for at least the first two trimesters, as it can help your body withstand the rigors of labor and delivery more easily. Our Elements Spa by Banyan Tree offers sessions on pre and post natal wellness program. Please call 25360940 for bookings and information

The do's and don’ts of pregnancy are different for each woman and each pregnancy. Always consult your doctor before making any major decisions before, during and even after pregnancy

What Pregnant Women Should Avoid:

• Avoid oral antibiotics often prescribed for acne. If you have a severe inflammation, ask your doctor about oral erythromycin, which is considered the safest for use during pregnancy. Usually, this medication is reserved for those who have very painful and inflamed lesions.
• Avoid products that contain vitamin A and its derivatives (retinals, including Retin-A, and retinoids). A vitamin-A derivative in Accutane, which is taken by mouth, has been shown to cause birth defects.
• Avoid alpha-hydroxy acids in creams you leave on your face.
• Avoid depilatories (cream hair removers) because the chemicals seep into the pores and loosen hair follicles. Shave while you're pregnant.
• Avoid self-tanners. They are probably safe, but require leaving the chemicals that dye skin cells on your skin for several hours. "Better safe than sorry,"
• Avoid hair dyes that cover your entire head as the dyes usually saturate the scalp and could be absorbed into your system. Theoretically, these are safer towards the end of your third trimester. Be cautious on hair dye because there are even safety questions about hair dye for non-pregnant women.

What Is OK for Pregnant Women:

• Nail polish remover that is used on the nails and immediately washed off is OK. Ditto for nail polish that is only wet for a short amount of time and is usually not applied more than once a week. Neither polish nor remover are absorbed by the nail plate.
• Sunblocks are more than just OK, they are required! Look for sunblocks that contain transparent zinc oxide, micronized zinc oxide or titanium dioxide -- the products that contain these ingredients contain fewer chemicals. Protecting your facial skin from the sun is essential during pregnancy to prevent a condition called melasma, which is known as the mask of pregnancy. The brown patchy skin that can crop up on your outer cheeks and outer forehead is caused by a combination of your hormones and sun exposure.
• Highlights or hair painting are OK if the dyes don't touch your scalp.
• Moisturizers and skin-soothing oils and creams are great to treat dry skin and avoid uncomfortable itching where your skin is stretching. There is no proof they prevent stretch marks, but some women swear by them!
• If you have no major skin problems, cleanse with a mild cleanser and use a light moisturizer at night; apply a moisturizer with a sunblock in the morning.
• If you have a skin condition, whether it's acne, rosacea or eczema, inform your dermatologist you are pregnant when discussing treatments and check your dermatologist's prescriptions with your obstetrician.

For more information, please call Royale Hayat’s Women & Family Health Advisor at 25360587.