It is important to know that during your pregnancy any exposure to toxins can be damaging or harmful to your growing baby. Your baby’s health and well-being depend in large part upon your ability to take care and to protect him or her during your pregnancy.
A common exposure that some women may not consider during pregnancy is second hand smoke. Second hand smoke can be harmful particularly during pregnancy. If you find yourself in an environment where people are smoking, remove yourself as quickly as possible. Don’t hesitate to address your needs or assert yourself during this important time. Most people will certainly understand your concerns and will be more than happy to accommodate any requests to avoid exposing your baby to unnecessary toxins.
Tips for Avoiding Toxins During Pregnancy
- Let someone else do your painting and renovations. Consider living elsewhere until they are finished.
- Assess and determine if there are any lead paint hazards present in your environment.
- Wash floors regularly to reduce exposure to dust.
- Avoid purchasing a lot of new products during pregnancy.
- Do not use pesticides in your home, or on your lawn and garden.
- Use environmentally friendly dry cleaners or avoid clothes that need to be dry cleaned.
- Do not use nail polish, artificial nails, hair colouring, hair spray and perfumes that contain solvents.
- Only use low VOC paint
- Use non-toxic cleaning and personal care products.
It can be very hard to avoid all toxins in today’s world, but as long as you keep it at the forefront of your mind you will be able to do whatever is reasonably possible during your pregnancy.
