What should I avoid at work or at home?
There are some dangers, such as radiation, heavy metals such as lead and mercury, carbon disulfide, acids and gas anesthetics. The radiation from computer screens does not seem harmful.
Those who work in health care facilities or child care may be at risk for cytomegalovirus (CMV) and parvovirus B19 (fifth disease) transmitted by infected children.
Avoid pesticides and toxic fumes, both at work and at home
To determine if you are exposed to certain hazards in your workplace and at home, talk with your family doctor. At work, whether products are dangerous to the baby, you can wear a dress or special equipment to protect the baby, or you can ask to be transferred temporarily before and during pregnancy.
The dangers of heat
The hot baths, even if they are relaxing, can harm the health of your baby during the first trimester of pregnancy. Some research has shown that excessive heat or fever, a bath or sauna during the first three months of pregnancy may cause birth defects in your baby.
Can I take medication?
Prescription drugs and OTC can affect your baby
If you often need to take medication because of health problems like asthma and epilepsy, thyroid disorders or migraines, discuss treatment with your doctor. It can take many of these drugs safely during pregnancy but it is always best to check.
Should I be tested before becoming pregnant?
You may need to undergo some tests to see if you have problems that threaten your health or your baby during pregnancy. Tests can be done before pregnancy to prevent some problems for you and baby.
Rubella. If you do not remember having had rubella or been vaccinated against the disease, a blood test will know. It can be very bad for the baby to catch rubella while you are pregnant, what can be prevented by getting vaccinated at least one month before trying to become pregnant.
Chickenpox. If you do not remember having had chickenpox or been vaccinated against the disease, a blood test will know. It can be very bad for the baby to catch chickenpox during pregnancy. It can be prevented by getting vaccinated at least one month before trying to become pregnant.
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). It may be more difficult to become pregnant if you have an STD like gonorrhea, syphilis and chlamydia, not to mention that this may affect your baby. It is possible to treat STDs before pregnancy.
Infection with HIV (human immunodeficiency). HIV is the virus that causes AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) and can be transmitted to your baby.
Other problems. Your doctor may wish to perform other tests if you are at risk of other problems such as anemia and hepatitis.
And if I have a health problem?
During pregnancy, it must closely monitor diabetes, hypertension and circulatory problems. It is often easier to deal with problems or to control before becoming pregnant.
Beware of phenylketonuria
Are you born with PKU? If yes, you've probably followed a special diet low in phenylalanine (an amino acid present in many foods rich in protein) during your childhood. Consult your doctor or dietitian to begin again the same diet before becoming pregnant. Otherwise, your baby may suffer mental retardation, low birth weight and present other problems.
Will my baby be at risk of genetic problems?
Your baby may be at risk for certain problems that are present in your family. There are genetic diseases, eg cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia and thalassemia (a type of anemia). These problems are not caused by what you do. Your baby is also at higher risk of genetic problems if you are over 35 years