Pregnancy And Lifestyle
PREGNANCY AND LIFESTYLE – Do you have concerns about your
normal routines that may affect you and your baby’s health now that
you’re pregnant? Did your girlfriends advise you not to dye your hair or
were stopped from boarding a plane? Are you wondering if you can still
have sex with your partner? Here are the answers to your questions:
- Can I dye my hair?
There is little research to support the effects of chemicals from
hair dyes on a developing fetus. However, doctors recommend that
pregnant women avoid or minimize the use of any kind of hair dye,
particularly during the first trimester. Since streaking or
highlighting involves lesser scalp contact with the dye, it might be
safer. To ensure your baby’s safety, don’t leave the dye longer than
necessary and always wear latex gloves. You can also consider using
vegetable-based products, such as henna dye.
- Can I travel on a plane?
Travel policies vary with each airline. While your travel agent may
give you a ticket even if you’re already in week 35, some airline
may request you not to go on board for safety measures. Generally,
domestic travel is okay until the 36th week, while international is
safe until your 35th week. Trips until the end of your second
trimester are more comfortable for you because you’ll have a
stronger abdomen. However, it is best to take precautions and bring
your doctor’s contact number and information about your allergies
and blood type when you go on board. If possible, sit on the aisle
to make it easier to stand, stretch and facilitate bathroom trips.
- Can I still have sex? If so, for how long into my pregnancy?
Sex is recommended during pregnancy. You can continue to have sex as
far into pregnancy as you and your partner are comfortable. However,
some doctors may recommend you to stop having sex when you
experience certain conditions, such as bleeding, preterm labor or
sexually transmitted infection
 you or your partner may have. To
ensure safety, make sure to ask your doctor detailed questions
involving orgasms, intercourse and for how long the abstinence is
required.
- Is it safe to go for a sauna or a hot bath?
For centuries, warm baths have been used in relaxing the body and
mind. Although there is no research to suggest that warm baths are
unsafe during pregnancy, you have to be wary about “hot” baths since
pregnant women cannot make their body temperature too high. This is
because you may faint or lower your blood pressure, which are both
dangerous to pregnant women.
- Is it safe to smoke marijuana?
For years, it was believed that marijuana had little effect on a
developing fetus. In newer studies, tests have shown that marijuana
smoking interferes with the normal production of male sperm, which
in turn, could lead to abnormalities of your baby. In addition,
smoke from cigarettes or marijuana is forced into your lungs, which
competes for oxygen that is supposed to be for your baby. Also,
since the government cannot trace the chemicals that contaminate
marijuana, it could be dangerous to your baby.
- Will sleeping on my back harm my baby?
In general, the sleeping positions you choose have little effect on
your unborn baby. However, women with pregnancy complications, such
as growth restriction of the baby, your doctor may recommend
sleeping on your left side to improve blood flow to the fetus. In
some women, resting on their backs for too long may lead to
dizziness or low blood pressure.
- Can I wear underwired bras?
While there is no concrete evidence to suggest that wearing
underwired bras can be harmful, many midwives advise against it
because the wire could interfere with the natural changes of your
breast size and shape. The wire could also lead to increased blood
flow to your developing milk ducts, which can be painful and
uncomfortable. As such, it is best to wear a supportive maternity
bra with wider shoulder straps, support panels and adjustable back
fastenings.
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