The first trimester is a period when the mother’s body undergoes many physiological changes and the main organs of the fetus begin to develop. During this time, the risk of miscarriage is high and fetal well-being is highly dependent on maternal well-being. You’ll find yourself in the middle of a wealth of advice on dos and don’ts, many of which may not make sense. So if you’re wondering what security measures to practice, here is a short list of security measures.

Food and Drinks

Once the fetus attaches itself to the uterine wall, it begins to extract nutrients and oxygen from you. What you consume will not only determine your health, but also the health of your developing baby. While it is obvious that you should eat nutritious high fiber foods, there are some that you should avoid / minimize.

· Caffeine: consuming more than 300 mg of caffeine increases the risk of miscarriage.

Large Fish: Although fish is a very good source of protein and omega-2s, large fish such as mackerel contain high amounts of methylmercury and should be avoided.

Raw and Uncooked Fish, Eggs, and Meat – Pregnant women are much more prone to infections. Various bacteria such as E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella can easily contaminate raw food. Some of these, like Listeria, can be passed to the fetus through the placenta. Always eat well-cooked food.

Unpasteurized milk and cheese

· Avoid alcoholic beverages.

Of smoking

Smoking, both active and passive, should be avoided during pregnancy. Cigarette smoke contains many harmful chemicals that can pass through the mother’s bloodstream and reach the growing baby. Smoking narrows the blood vessels and reduces the oxygen supply to your baby. Even just one cigarette a day increases the risk of miscarriage, premature labor, and many birth defects, such as low birth weight, stillbirth, and heart defects. Stop smoking as soon as you know you are pregnant.

Jacuzzis

The body cannot lose heat effectively when using a hot tub, sauna, and even a steam room. This causes a significant increase in body temperature, which is not safe for the developing baby. Hot tubs should be avoided entirely during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.

Physical activity

A mother’s body goes through a series of physical and hormonal changes during pregnancy. Fatigue and nausea are very common during the first weeks. It is recommended that you get enough rest. Do not lift heavy weights to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the growing baby. Women can safely continue to exercise during early pregnancy, but if you haven’t been exercising before getting pregnant, you may want to take it easy. Walking is great. However, if you have any complications during pregnancy, consult your doctor before starting something new.

Hygiene

If you have pets, make a habit of washing your hands after patting animals to avoid infections such as taxoplasmosis that can affect the fetus and cause brain damage. Wear gloves while gardening and avoid handling pet litter.

Sex

According to BabyCenter, “The amniotic sac and uterine muscles protect the baby and a thick mucus plug seals the cervix to protect it from infection.” If you are having a normal pregnancy and your doctor has given you the green light, then there is no reason to abstain from a pleasant moment as long as you are comfortable.

Pregnancy is a wonderful journey. Get the most out of making informed and safe decisions. Take care of yourself and trust your body. It will tell you what you need and what feels bad.