It is recommended that pregnant women avoid drinking alcoholic beverages. Although small amounts of alcohol are usually not considered harmful during the very early stages of pregnancy, the longer alcohol is consumed the greater the risks will be. Please call if you are concerned.
Most experts agree that most hair treatments (permanents, straighteners, coloring, bleaching) are unlikely to pose an increased risk to the fetus and therefore the decision of whether to use them can be a personal one.
Some over-the-counter cold medications can be taken in moderate amounts if necessary, but check with your health care provider or call us about taking any cold medications, including herbal remedies.
It is generally felt believed that pregnant women should avoid this task. However, the occasional household exposure is not known to pose an increased risk during pregnancy but oil based products should be avoided and the area should be well-ventilated. Please call for more information.
If the paint is intact (i.e. there is no chipping or peeling and if it is not being sanded or stripped) then it is unlikely to result in a significant exposure. However, if you believe you have had a significant exposure to lead then a blood lead test can be performed by your doctor to determine if your levels are elevated.
People who have had the chicken pox are usually immune to the disease and are unlikely to be re-infected. If you have never had the chicken pox, it is important to contact your health care provider or MothertToBaby MA for more information.
According to the Food and Drug Administration, the common ingredients in sunscreens today are minimally absorbed into the bloodstream from the skin. Although there are no studies available on the use of these products in human pregnancy, they are not expected to be harmful.
If you have had exposure to drugs during the early stages of pregnancy, call MotherToBaby. We will provide information in non-judgmental manner and will make an assessment of risk for your unique situation. Every woman’s exposure is different so get advice from professionals first before making any decisions. It may not be as bad as you think.