Do’s and don’ts for a safe and healthy pregnancy

Now that you’re carrying precious cargo, you’re probably wondering how to keep your baby safe during your pregnancy. No need to go overboard, but a few simple adjustments can make a difference. Think of it as practice for the next 18 years or so. If you’re ever unsure whether or not something is safe, ask us! No question is too small. Make sure you’re registered on kp.org so you can email your doctor’s office anytime.

What to avoid during pregnancy

Certain things aren’t good for you at any time, but the list grows a bit longer when you’re expecting. Some things are still totally OK. You should be able to continue with your favorite exercise and extracurricular activities, and you don't have to change your beauty routine. Just make sure to open a window when you paint your nails or color your hair — that’s a good idea whether you’re pregnant or not.

Things to avoid:

• Alcohol, drugs, and tobacco, because they pass through the placenta to the baby
• Caffeine, if you can — or drink as little as possible (remember caffeine can be found in soda and tea as well as coffee)
• Raw or undercooked meat, chicken, fish, or eggs
• Heavy lifting
• Hazardous chemicals, including some you might find in everyday household cleaners (now’s a great time to try some “green” cleaning alternatives — you might never switch back!)
• Handling kitty litter — it releases fumes that can be harmful to your baby
• Taking hot baths and getting in hot tubs
• Using tanning beds

Ask us before you stop or start taking medication

As soon as you know you’re pregnant, call your personal clinician or ob-gyn about the medications (prescription and over-the-counter), vitamins, homeopathic remedies, herbs, and home remedies that you take. We’ll let you know if it’s still safe to take them.

Acetaminophen (the main ingredient in Tylenol) is a safe and effective treatment for pain or fever during pregnancy.¹ If left untreated, these conditions can lead to serious health risks for you and your baby. For example, fever during pregnancy increases the risk of autism in the baby.²

Safe travels!

In the middle of your pregnancy, you may feel great, have lots of energy, and be able to enjoy a relaxing vacation — free of strollers and diapers. So why not hit the road? If you’re having a healthy pregnancy, it’s generally OK to travel through your second trimester. Here’s how to make the most of your getaway.

Planning your trip

• Tell us where and when you plan to travel. We’ll let you know if it’s a safe place to be while you’re pregnant, and give you any vaccinations or booster shots you may need.
• Some infections can have a long-lasting effect on  your baby, so review the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s most up-to-date precautions for pregnant travelers to or from the United States.
  
• Stay away from high altitude destinations. Higher altitudes have less oxygen, which might make you feel sick or tired.
• Carry your doctor’s contact info with you, and learn how to get care while traveling.
• Make sure the drinking water and fresh produce are safe. If you’re going somewhere where they might be unsafe, tell us. We’ll help you plan ahead.

Getting there

• Road trip? Stop every 2 hours to stretch. If you travel by plane or train, get up and move around often to keep your blood flowing. Pregnancy can increase your risk of having a clot in your legs or lungs.
• Many airlines don’t let you fly when you’re more than 36 weeks pregnant, and cruise ships might not let you board after 24 weeks. Check before you book to avoid a last-minute let-down.
  
• Wear your seat belt to protect you and your baby. Position it low on your lap, below the baby, and not across your stomach.

Once you arrive

• Plan to relax. Being pregnant can tire you out, so rest when you need to.
• Carry healthy snacks with you, and eat every few hours to avoid low blood sugar.