Pregnancy is a delicate phase of your life. Having a new life inside you means you have to be careful with physical activities because whatever you do directly affects you and your baby’s health.
Nesting, a sudden urge to clean, organize, and keep everything in order, is an instinct that many expectant mothers experience. While it doesn’t harm you or your baby in any way, it can sometimes put you in full working mode.
However, you should only work as much as your body allows you to. The following are some household chores that you should avoid during pregnancy.
1. Lifting, moving, or carrying heavy objects
Lifting, carrying, or moving weight of any kind is a definite no-no during pregnancy. Heavy items include:
- A gas cylinder
- A full bucket of water
- Picking up your older child
- Laundry baskets
- A suitcase or a bag of groceries
- Moving furniture around
As your center of gravity changes during pregnancy, lifting or moving these objects can increase the risk of:
- Pulled muscles
- Preterm labor
- Low birth weight
- Hernia
- Unexpected bleeding
- Rupture of the amniotic sac
- Miscarriage
Follow your doctor’s advice on how much weight you can safely lift.
2. Changing or cleaning the litter boxes of pets
Various studies have proven that cats can carry Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite they can get from eating infected rodents, birds, raw meat, and other animals.
This means that if you clean or change your cat’s litter box during pregnancy, you are more likely to develop this parasite infection which can be harmful to you and your growing baby. You can take these precautions to reduce your risk of exposure to harmful parasites and germs:
- Keep your cat indoors.
- Feed your cat only dry or canned food.
- Avoid giving your cat raw or undercooked meat.
- Wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
- Assign this task to another adult family member.
3. Use of pesticides and harsh cleaning chemicals
No matter what stage of pregnancy you are in, using pesticides and chemical-rich cleaning products is a big no-no. The reason? This can expose you to piperonyl butoxide, a highly toxic substance found in pesticides, which affects the baby’s brain development.
Some common household chemical-based cleaning products that you should avoid during pregnancy are:
- Paint thinners
- Air fresheners
- Bug killer sprays
- Varnish removers
- Some paintings
- Bathroom, Kitchen, Oven, and Carpet cleaners
Read labels carefully when purchasing any household cleaning product. Avoid anything labeled “toxic,” and instead, choose green, natural products with the tag “Eco Logo” or “Green Seal,” etc.
4. Painting the nursery
Paints give off toxic fumes, so it’s best to leave the job to your partner or a contractor. Although latex or water-based paints are safe for pregnant women, it is important to take the following preventive safety measures:
- Wear a mask or respirator.
- Cover your skin properly.
- Take frequent breaks.
- Avoid lead paint.
- Paint in a well-ventilated area.
- Keep your doors and windows open.
- Drink and eat outside the room.
- Use an exhaust fan to blow out the pollutants
- Take a shower when you’re done.
Also, avoid entering the newly painted nursery for at least three days.
5. Chores that involve balancing, stretching, or climbing
Carrying the weight of the baby changes your center of gravity, increasing your risk of falling and losing balance. For this reason, you should avoid any household chores that involve climbing, stretching, or balancing. This includes:
- Climbing stairs or stairs.
- Changing the curtains.
- Hang clothes.
- Standing on a chair or stool.
- Cleaning ceiling fans.
- Stretch your legs to reach the upper shelves or loft.
Remember, even a small imbalance can cause pregnancy complications such as placental abruption, preterm labor, or even miscarriage. Also, avoid standing, sitting, or bending for too long.
When to Call Your Doctor?
Call your doctor right away if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Spotting
- Cramping
- Painful contractions
- Exit or discharge
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Nausea and fatigue
- A sudden change in body temperature
While light housework is a great way to stay active and fit during pregnancy, you should avoid doing any of the above-mentioned activities as they can be dangerous to your growing baby. Listen to your body and delegate these tasks to others.
