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Things to Avoid
- Alcohol: As no one really knows how much booze is safe to drink when pregnant it is best to avoid it. Alcohol can cause birth defects in the baby. It can also, in larger quantities, cause miscarriage.
- Unchecked use of vitamins: If you are thinking of taking any food supplements it's best to read-up or ask ayour GP or midwife about which ones can benefit you in your pregnancy. Large doses of vitamin A are particularly harmful to a developing baby, which is why you should also avoid liver.
- Food you are allergic to: If you are sensitive or allergic to certain foods it is best to avoid them in pregnancy because your baby may also be sensitive or affected by your reaction to those foods. Also avoid unpasteurised soft cheeses and pates, they may be carrying the listeria bacterium which is a danger to the baby.
- Smoking: Babies born to smokers may be smaller than other babies, premature or more prone to infections. Cigarette smoke has been recognised as one of the causes of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (also called Cot Death). Asthma, throat and ear infections are common amongst children whose parents smoke. If you would like help to stop smoking you can contact Quitline on 0800 00 22 00.
- Medicine: Avoid all medicines that are not essential. Consult your doctor to check the drugs you may be taking are safe during pregnancy.
- X-rays: Avoid X-rays including dental X-rays.
- Important checks: Are you immune to German Measles (Rubella)? See your doctor about this.
- Some Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) can affect your fertility or be passed on to your baby.
If you or your partner think that you might be at risk from an STI (including HIV) go to your local sexual health clinic.
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