How much should I exercise?

A 2017 study showed that 30 to 60 minutes of exercise two to seven times per week may reduce hypertension. If possible, try to space out exercise during the week. This rest may help your body recharge. 

What is the best kind of exercise?

There isn’t one “best” kind of exercise. It depends on your level of comfort and what you enjoy. For example, if you were a runner before becoming pregnant, you can likely continue. If you’re new to exercise, try fast walks and low-impact options such as prenatal yoga, walking, light weights, and swimming. See how you feel and shift your plan as needed. 

What exercise should I not do?

This will depend on your health. However, some exercises are usually riskier than others. Try to avoid exercises that:

1. Involve collision, physical contact, and falling
2. You haven’t done it before becoming pregnant
3. Make you feel overly tired

What are the risks?

If you have a healthy pregnancy, exercising while pregnant has no known risks. It will not increase your risk of miscarriage, low birth weight, or early delivery. 

Is there anything else I should remember?

Yes! Here’s what to keep in mind:

1. Listen to your body 
2. Focus on what works for you 
3. Work with a trusted healthcare provider 

You and your healthcare provider can work together to make sure you are safe and comfortable. You can also read more about preeclampsia and exercise below.

Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team

Read More

• Preeclampsia: What you need to know 
• Being your own health care advocate
• Low-impact exercise during pregnancy
• What’s a risky exercise during pregnancy?

Sources

• Magro-Malosso, Elena R. “Exercise during pregnancy and risk of gestational hypertensive disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis.” Obstetrics and Gynecology. 96(80: 921-931. Web. August 2017. 
• “Healthy Pregnant or Postpartum Women.” Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. June 3, 2022. https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/ basics/pregnancy/index.htm
• “Exercise During Pregnancy: Frequently Asked Questions.” The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. December 2021. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/exercise-during-pregnancy#:~:text=Regular%

How can doulas help?

Starting in pregnancy, doulas can support you by helping you learn more about labor and delivery, answering questions you have about the process, and helping make sure that you know all your options before the big day. Doulas can also support you throughout labor, helping you position your body to find more comfort, offering hands-on touch to provide relief and promote calm, and helping you communicate with your healthcare provider to ensure that you feel in control during the process.

And because, in many instances, you might not deliver your baby with the healthcare provider who has been seeing you throughout your pregnancy, a doula can serve as a great source of consistency and stability throughout your pregnancy journey. They can even provide you with support postpartum as your body recovers, as you learn to breastfeed (if you choose to) and care for an infant, and as you adjust to how this major transition reshapes your life. 

Another big way doulas offer support is by helping you to advocate for the kind of care you want and need. Self-advocacy when it comes to the medical care you’ll receive during this time is hugely important, especially if you experience a medical professional who is not really hearing you. Because you’ll have been working with your doula for sometime and they’ll really understand what you want and need — and because you’ll likely be very comfortable speaking with them honestly about your wants and needs — they can help back you up, communicate your needs, and make sure you’re heard.  

In addition, recent research shows that doulas can help lead to better health outcomes. Folks who work with doulas are less likely to experience complications that involve them or their baby, are less likely to have a baby with low birth weight, and have higher rates of breastfeeding.

Why it’s important to find one who gets you

Clearly working with a doula has some major benefits, but how can you choose one who’ll be best for you? It can be incredibly helpful to work with a doula who can provide you with personalized support — physically, emotionally, and educationally. Often finding a doula who works in your community — someone who you feel you can really connect with and speak with honestly — is the best choice.

How doulas can play a role in helping with birth equity

Health inequity in the United States has devastating consequences for Black women and families, who experience disproportionately worse maternal and infant health outcomes for a number of reasons — including limited access to care, dismissal of pain and other health concerns, and higher rates of underlying health conditions — racism and unconscious bias in the healthcare system are huge factors in each of these areas.

Doulas can play a role in improving  birth equity, which is “the assurance of the conditions of optimal births for all people, with a willingness to address racial and social inequities in a sustained effort.” There are, for example, doula groups run by and for Black women, so that those doulas can really understand what the people they are working with are going through, the challenges they may be facing, and can help support all of their unique needs. A personalized doula experience, where you really feel like your doula understands your unique needs and wishes, can greatly improve health outcomes. 

You deserve support

So if you’d like to work with a doula, try and seek one out in your community who you connect with and who understands where you’re coming from. A quick internet search may help you find independent doulas or doula groups in your area (DONA International, a leading doula certifying organization, has a database to search by location). You may also want to ask your healthcare provider if they have any recommendations. And it’s also worth noting that some healthcare offices and community clinics may even be able to help get you set up to work with doulas in your community, some of whom may be available to support you at no cost during pregnancy and postpartum.

Doulas can be expensive and inaccessible for some people to hire on their own, so even if free community doula services are not available through your healthcare office or clinic, many student doulas do offer free or discounted services. So if you’re interested in doula services, start your search today. You deserve to have the kind of support a doula can provide. 

Read more

• How to advocate for yourself as a patient to get the care you deserve
• Why bringing a support person with you to appointments can help you advocate for the best healthcare

Sources

• Kenneth J. Gruber, Susan H. Cupito, Christina F. Dobson. “Impact of Doulas on Healthy Birth Outcomes.” The Journal of Perinatal Education. 22(1): 49-58. Winter 2013. Retrieved August 31 2020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3647727/.
• “Find a Doula.” DONA International. DONA International. Retrieved August 31 2020. https://www.dona.org/what-is-a-doula/find-a-doula/.
• “Obstetric Care Consensus: Safe Prevention of the Primary Cesarean Delivery.” The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 2016. Retrieved August 31 2020. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/obstetric-care-consensus/articles/2014/03/safe-prevention-of-the-primary-cesarean-delivery.

If I am infected with COVID-19 during delivery, what will happen to my baby after delivery?

If you are suspected of or are confirmed to have COVID-19 during your delivery, your baby will likely undergo testing to confirm their infection status and will be isolated from other healthy infants while receiving their normal newborn care [1]. You and your baby may be encouraged to share a room (“rooming-in”).

Can I breastfeed and have skin-to-skin contact with my baby if I am infected with COVID-19?

There are currently no known cases where COVID-19 infections have been transmitted through breast milk [2, 3], so breast milk itself is safe to feed your baby. 

Experts believe that it is reasonable to directly breastfeed your baby with proper precautions, such as wearing a mask and washing hands thoroughly [4]. We know that with other illnesses, you pass antibodies to your baby through your breast milk. Antibodies are what your body makes to help fight off illness. The research into COVID antibodies in breastmilk is really encouraging and suggests that antibodies are passed through breastmilk after infection or vaccination for about 90 days.

Rooming-in and skin-to-skin contact are still recommended. While it is the birthing parent’s choice how to participate in these practices, there are many benefits, including better breastfeeding, temperature control, blood sugar, and parent-child bonding. Still, it is very important to wear a mask over your mouth and nose and to clean your hands frequently. And when you’re not nursing, the CDC recommends having Baby six feet away from you if possible.

Will I be separated from my baby if I have COVID-19?

Parents who are COVID-19 positive and coping well with their symptoms should NOT be separated from their baby after giving birth [6]. Parents and babies should stay together according to groups, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), ACOG, CDC and WHO. 

If you have concerns about your particular situation, please bring them up with your healthcare provider, and make sure you fully understand all the risks and benefits.

What about my postpartum appointments?

If you test positive for Covid-19 during the early weeks postpartum, many appointments, including mental health assessments, birth control planning and general questions, can all be done virtually. Mental health is a major postpartum concern and standard perinatal depression screeners can be completed at home. In-office visits may still be necessary for those with underlying conditions, wound infections, desire for an IUD or implant, or in the presence of other concerning symptoms. However, be sure to let your provider know you are sick. Ask your provider what option(s) are most appropriate for you, and don’t hesitate to call them if you have any concerns about your physical or mental wellbeing. General recommendations suggest that each person have a check-in by three weeks and a comprehensive 6- to 12-week postpartum appointment.

Should I get the COVID-19 vaccine if I am breastfeeding?

Guidance about vaccination may differ depending on which health organization you rely on. ACOG (the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists), recommends people who are trying to conceive, are pregnant, and breastfeeding get vaccinated against COVID [7]. As always, your OB or primary care provider is a great resource.

Will my milk supply be impacted if I get COVID-19? 

Many anecdotal reports suggest that a temporary dip in milk supply can result during or after a COVID-19 infection. This is similar to many other illnesses. Prioritizing rest, and eating and drinking enough, is essential. Supply may take time to rebound, but most nurslings do well being fed on demand. If you are exclusively pumping,  you may need to dip into your freezer stash for a short period of time. Note that some people also experience nipple pain after feeds related to COVID-19 infection, which is believed to be the result of vasospasm. Warm compresses immediately after nursing or pumping can be helpful with this pain. It’s always okay to reach out to a lactation professional for support along your feeding journey!

Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team

Your COVID-19 guide

Read more

• COVID-19, labor, and delivery: Your questions answered
• COVID-19

Urine tests

Chorionic villus sampling

First trimester combined screen

Cell-free fetal DNA testing

Read more

• First trimester guide: getting the hang of things
• First trimester provider appointments

Sources

1st Trimester, 1st Appointment (Week 8)

Out of all of the pre-natal visits you will make (about fourteen regularly scheduled visits, not including any further testing or ultrasounds), your first one will probably be the longest at about 45 minutes, and will also be the only one in which you may meet with a Nurse Practitioner (NP) or Physician Assistant (PA) rather than your OB/GYN if you have one. During your initial visit, you’ll go through a bit of an “interview” process, as your medical professional tries to better understand your personal and family medical history, information that will help them guide you through your pregnancy, and recommend certain tests and screens that you should take. At the first visit, like all visits after it, will also check your weight, blood pressure, and have you leave a urine sample that they will test for protein and glucose levels to make sure there are no indicators of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or certain infections.

The healthcare provider will also send you to the lab for blood work, where they will test for the following:

• hCG level: Human Chorionic Gonadotropin is the hormone released by your fertilized egg early in pregnancy. Healthcare providers want to make sure that your hCG level is within the recommended range, as excess hCG levels can indicate a possibility of a chromosomal disorder or imminent miscarriage.
• Blood type, Rh Factor: Technicians will determine whether or not a protein called Rhesus (Rh) is present in your blood. If you are Rh-negative (Rh not present) and your baby is Rh-positive, you could build antibodies that might be dangerous for them, so your healthcare provider will likely have you take a injection later on in your pregnancy that will offset any ill effects.
• CF Screen: Your blood may be screened to detect Cystic Fibrosis, a genetic disease that affects the lungs, as well as other organs. You may also choose to be screened for other conditions.
• CBC: Your provider will take a CBC (Complete Blood Count) to check your blood’s ability to transport oxygen to the womb, and check your red blood cell count to determine whether or not you are anemic (not enough red blood cells).
• Other tests: You may also be tested for other conditions like syphilis, Hepatitis, RPR, HIV, and rubella.

Your Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant, or other medical professional will also perform different cultures and exams, including a pelvic exam, breast exam, Pap smear if needed based upon the current guidelines, and cultures to test for gonorrhea, chlamydia, and bacterial vaginosis.

He or she will also probably discuss with you a general outline of how the next several months will go in terms of appointments, tests, and possibly symptoms, and they may begin talking to you about non-invasive prenatal testing, a popular new diagnostic tool that is safer in practice than an amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling.

1st Trimester, 2nd Appointment (Week 12)

The second prenatal visit might be your first appointment with your OB/GYN if you elect to use one, so it may also run a bit longer than the ones to come. As in the first appointment, your healthcare provider will ask you some questions about your medical history and current health, just to more fully understand the individual specifics of your pregnancy.

As always, the provider will take your weight, blood pressure, and have you leave a urine sample, which they will check for sugar and protein levels, as elevated quantities of these can indicate preeclampsia and gestational diabetes respectively. And if you did not undergo a physical examination at your first appointment, you will almost certainly have one done now. Your doctor, NP, PA or midwife will probably also offer two other forms of testing at this appointment:

• Fetal doppler: Using a fetal doppler, a hand-held ultrasound device, your provider will check the baby’s heart rate to make sure all is going smoothly.
• First Trimester Combined Screening: Although this screening process cannot diagnose chromosomal abnormalities, medical professionals can use the information obtained to determine whether further testing is necessary. The screening is basically divided into two parts:
• Using an ultrasound, your provider will measure the amount of fluid behind your baby’s neck, which can be a sign of Down Syndrome or other abnormalities when the amount is too high. This is known as Nuchal Translucency Screening.
• You will have blood drawn, which your healthcare providers will check for levels of Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPPA) and human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG), as lower or higher than normal amounts, respectively, can indicate chromosomal abnormalities.

There is an increased age-related risk of fetal anomalies, so it’s especially important that older moms get screened. Although these screening tests can identify about 85% of abnormalities, they also have an approximately 5% false positive rate. And because the amount of babies with abnormalities is so much smaller than the amount of healthy babies, the 5% of false positives represent a significant portion of those whose tests raised red flags. This means that only about 1 out of every 200 First Trimester Screening positives are actually cases of chromosomal abnormalities. So although all babies who screen positive will be referred to further, more conclusive diagnostic testing like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling, a positive result on the First Trimester Screening is not a sure-fire indicator of a risk.

Read more

• Newly pregnant? Everything you need to know
• First trimester medical tests: loving baby from the start

Sources

• Mayo Clinic Staff. “Prenatal care: 1st trimester visits.” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic, 7/31/2015. Web.
• “Prenatal care in your first trimester.” U.S National Library of Medicine. MedlinePlus, 6/11/2014. Web.

Helpful information about iron-deficiency (anemia)

Iron-deficiency anemia is easily diagnosed and treated — and very common in females, especially those of childbearing age. The World Health Organization estimates that more than 42% of pregnant women and 30% of nonpregnant women and suffer from this condition.

Why do so many women of childbearing age have iron-deficiency anemia?

Women who are of childbearing age are at high risk for the condition because of the blood lost during monthly periods. If you have a heavy period, you might be at high risk for this condition. Women who are pregnant are also at high risk for the condition because their bodies are in need of even more iron than usual due to their increased blood volume and the iron and hemoglobin needed for a baby’s growth.

A number of other conditions and risk factors can lead to iron-deficiency anemia. Individuals who don’t consume enough iron — found in foods like meat, leafy greens, eggs, and iron-fortified foods — could be at risk. People who suffer blood loss for other reasons — such as ulcers or hernias — or even frequent blood donors can also be at risk. And because iron is absorbed by the body in the small intestine, individuals with disorders that affect the small intestine’s ability to absorb such nutrients can be at risk too.

What are some of the symptoms of anemia? And how is it diagnosed and treated?

Mild anemia usually goes unnoticed as some of the common symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia can be easily attributed to other issues or overlooked. But when the condition does worsen, common symptoms may include:

• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Generalized weakness
• Pale or yellow skin
• Headache, lightheadedness, or dizziness
• Pounding in the ears
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid heartbeat or chest pain
• Cold hands and feet
• Brittle nails
• Hair loss
• Sore tongue
• Poor appetite
• Pica, unusual cravings for non-nutritive substances (like ice, dirt, or starch)

Your healthcare provider can run blood tests to diagnose iron-deficiency anemia. Because the condition is often under-diagnosed, being your own healthcare advocate can go a long way. If you’re suffering from any of these symptoms, ask your provider if they think such tests are warranted.

Once diagnosed, your provider will work to understand the underlying cause of the condition. Fortunately, for many, anemia can easily be treated with over-the-counter iron supplements or dietary changes. Many people do start to feel better after a few weeks, and your healthcare provider will likely have you retake the same blood tests a month or so after starting treatment to see if your iron levels are improving.

What can iron-deficiency anemia lead to?

If iron-deficiency anemia is left untreated, it can cause a number of complications such as heart problems and a greater susceptibility to infection.

In pregnant women, the condition is linked to premature births, babies with low birth weight, and greater blood loss after birth. Luckily, blood tests at initial prenatal healthcare appointments include blood tests that will look for signs of anemia. Based on these test results, for many women their prenatal care may very well include iron supplements.

Read more

• Foods to fix iron-deficiency anemia
• Why preventive care is essential for better health

Sources:

• AJ Friedman et al. “Iron deficiency anemia in women: A practical guide to detection, diagnosis, and treatment.” Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey. 70(5): 342-53. May 2015. Retrieved August 28 2017. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25974731.
• Mayo Clinic Staff. “Iron deficiency anemia.” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, November 11 2016. Retrieved August 28 2017. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/iron-deficiency-anemia/home/ovc-20266507.
• “Iron-Deficiency Anemia.” American Society of Hematology. American Society of Hematology. Retrieved August 28 2017. http://www.hematology.org/Patients/Anemia/Iron-Deficiency.aspx.
• “What Is Iron-Deficiency Anemia?” National Institutes of Health: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. March 26 2014. Retrieved August 28 2017. http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/emotional-support.aspx.

• Pregnancy complications and your risk of cardiovascular disease
• What is a molar pregnancy?

Sources

• Mayo Clinic Staff. “Molar Pregnancy: Complications.” MayoClinic. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, Oct 24 2014. Web.
• “What is gestational trophoblastic disease?” Cancer. American Cancer Society, Feb 9 2016. Web.
• “Gestational Trophoblastic Disease.” MedlinePlus. US National Library of Medicine, Jun 11 2014. Web.
• Ross Berkowitz, et al. “Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia: Epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, staging, and risk stratification.” Uptodate. UptoDate, Inc., Jan 5 2015. Web.

The majority of hydatidiform moles, also known as molar pregnancies, are very treatable, whether through a dilation and curettage (D&C) or a more permanent procedure like a hysterectomy. The success rates of these procedures are quite high.

Understanding potential symptoms or complications from molar pregnancy

Women should know that possible complications are associated with molar pregnancies, and also that women who have a molar pregnancy may be at greater risk of certain future health conditions.

Persistent gestational trophoblastic disease

A molar pregnancy is one of a few different conditions under the umbrella of gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD). Most of the time after treatment to remove a molar pregnancy, the body will get rid of any molar tissue that remains in the uterus. However, for some women, molar tissue remains and continues to grow. This is known as persistent gestational trophoblastic disease. Persistent GTD occurs in roughly one out of every five women who experience a molar pregnancy. It is more common after a complete molar pregnancy than a partial one.

When the remaining molar tissue grows into, or invades, the tissue surrounding the uterus, gestational trophoblastic neoplasm (GTN) has occurred. GTN can be dangerous, and it is considered a malignancy because it has the potential to spread to other parts of the body. To make sure that the tissue isn’t still growing, your healthcare provider will regularly measure your hCG level and check to make sure it is decreasing over time. A sign of GTN is high hCG levels after the removal of molar tissue.

If it’s determined that a woman has GTN, the condition requires additional treatment, but it can usually be treated with chemotherapy or a hysterectomy, depending on what the provider and the woman decide is best.

Invasive mole

Invasive moles occur when molar tissue remains in the uterus after treatment and grows into the uterine muscle wall. Most of the time, invasive moles will remain localized to the uterus, but invasive moles do have the ability to spread to other parts of the body, which is why they require additional treatment.

Choriocarcinoma

Choriocarcinoma is a cancerous and rarer type of GTD, and while they can develop spontaneously, half of all cases of choriocarcinoma occur after a molar pregnancy. The condition grows quickly and can spread to other organs in the body, so it needs to be treated right away. Cancer drugs are usually used to treat choriocarcinoma.

Knowing your risk

It’s important to understand that these complications are uncommon, and they don’t affect the majority of women who experience a molar pregnancy. However, knowing the possible complications can help you prepare for your appointments and understand why your provider takes certain measures to monitor things like your hCG levels. If you have any questions about possible risks of GTD, make sure to ask your provider to tell you more about them, and how they may or may not relate to your health.

Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team

Read more

• Pregnancy complications and your risk of cardiovascular disease
• What is a molar pregnancy?

Sources

• Mayo Clinic Staff. “Molar Pregnancy: Complications.” MayoClinic. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, Oct 24 2014. Web.
• “What is gestational trophoblastic disease?” Cancer. American Cancer Society, Feb 9 2016. Web.
• “Gestational Trophoblastic Disease.” MedlinePlus. US National Library of Medicine, Jun 11 2014. Web.
• Ross Berkowitz, et al. “Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia: Epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, staging, and risk stratification.” Uptodate. UptoDate, Inc., Jan 5 2015. Web.

If left untreated, preeclampsia can have devastating consequences for both you and your baby. That said, most people who receive early detection and treatment for this condition give birth to healthy infants.

What are the effects of preeclampsia?

The early warning signs of preeclampsia range from silent to subtle to severe. You might experience headaches, visual changes, nausea, upper abdominal pain or heartburn, shortness of breath, swelling, or dizziness. Since these can also be normal pregnancy symptoms, it can be hard to tell what is cause for concern. However, if these signs are accompanied by high blood pressure, it could mean you have preeclampsia.

Preeclampsia can make it difficult for the placenta to receive nutrients and pass them along to your growing baby. Sometimes, the first sign of preeclampsia is that the baby isn’t growing as expected. It can also result in placental abruption, a potentially fatal complication in which the placenta detaches from the uterus.

The most severe outcome of preeclampsia is when it isn’t treated and turns into eclampsia, which means the parent has seizures. Eclampsia is a medical emergency, as it can be life-threatening to the expecting parent and their baby.

What are the risk factors for developing preeclampsia?

Any pregnant person can develop preeclampsia, though some folks are at higher risk than others. Here are some of the risk factors for preeclampsia:

• Chronic hypertension
• Family or personal history of preeclampsia
• Obesity
• Age, either adolescent or over 40
• Diabetes

How do you test for preeclampsia?

Most providers check blood pressure and for protein in urine at every in-person appointment, no matter what your risk factors are. If you have risk factors for preeclampsia, you may also be asked to check your blood pressure at home. If your blood pressure or urine test suggests a problem, you’ll likely get additional monitoring for your blood pressure and your baby, as well as lab tests that can provide more information.

How do you treat preeclampsia?

The only way to cure preeclampsia is to give birth. When preeclampsia appears late in pregnancy, this is often the safest option. But when it appears earlier in pregnancy, you and your medical team will have to weigh the risks of continuing the pregnancy and the risks of a premature birth. In milder cases, preeclampsia can be monitored at home or in the hospital without an urgent delivery. But in severe cases, sometimes preterm birth is necessary. Treatment before birth may include bedrest, blood pressure-lowering medications, steroids to speed up fetal lung development, and magnesium sulfate infusions, which help to prevent eclampsia.

Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team

Read more

• Preeclampsia: how healthcare providers detect it
• Blood pressure during pregnancy: why you should track it

Sources

• Mayo Clinic Staff. “Preeclampsia: Symptoms & Causes.” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic. March 19, 2020. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/preeclampsia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355745.
• “Preeclampsia.” March of Dimes. March of Dimes. October 2020. https://www.marchofdimes.org/complications/preeclampsia.aspx.
• “Preeclampsia and Pregnancy.” American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists (ACOG). ACOG. October 2020.  https://www.acog.org/womens-health/infographics/preeclampsia-and-pregnancy.
• “High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). CDC. January 28, 2020. https://www.cdc.gov/high-blood-pressure/about/high-blood-pressure-during-pregnancy.

You come into contact with a wide range of chemicals every day because, well… everything is a chemical — even water. That said, you may want to avoid certain synthetic chemicals found in cosmetics, cleaning formulas, and household products. Here’s what the research can tell us.

Hair dye

Black, blond, brown, red, or purple — whatever your shade, you can dye your hair during pregnancy. The main concern is about chemicals in the dye absorbing through your scalp and entering your bloodstream. But according to the Mayo Clinic, the skin absorbs a limited amount of any product, and the minimal amount isn’t believed to pose any harm to you or your developing baby.

To play it safe, color your hair in a well-ventilated area, and don’t leave the dye on your hair for longer than directed. If you want to avoid dye on your scalp completely, you could opt for a chic ombre look during pregnancy.

Nail polish

There aren’t any known risks of painting your nails while pregnant. Some nail polishes contain phthalates, which could be harmful in high doses. However, the small amount in nail lacquer shouldn’t pose any risk.

Chemicals found in nail polish and nail polish remover (including paraffin, formaldehyde, and acetone) can create fumes, whether at home or in a nail salon. But as long as there’s a window or door open, you probably don’t need to worry about breathing in chemicals. That said, if you feel dizzy or nauseous, you may want to pause the manicure and get some fresh air.

Face and body products

So, what about other cosmetics, like skin and body care? Products containing retinoids should generally be avoided because they’ve been shown to increase the risk of certain birth defects when taken orally. Salicylic acid that is applied to the skin is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but should not be taken orally at 325 mg or higher, for example in the form of adult aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid). On the other hand, studies have shown that low dose aspirin (about 81 mg/day) prescribed by a medical professional can prevent or delay preeclampsia and does not increase the chance of complications or birth defects.

But you might be glad to hear most other common skincare ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy. AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) like glycolic acid and lactic acid have the green light since they don’t soak into the skin. Sunscreen, self-tanner, and skincare products with benzoyl peroxide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and glycerin are thought to be safe as well. If you need more advanced skincare during pregnancy, it’s always okay to consult with a dermatologist.

Bug spray

As you know, using a bug spray can lower your chances of being bitten. Though insect bites can be harmless or nothing more than annoying, they can also cause various skin infections and diseases. It’s particularly important to avoid mosquito bites if you live in an area affected by Zika virus.

While there are different kinds of bug sprays you can buy, products containing DEET tend to offer the best protection. You may have heard about potential side effects of DEET, but there’s currently no evidence that it’s harmful to pregnant folks or their developing babies.

House paint

House paints sold today often have very low amounts of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) or none at all. For this reason, it’s unlikely that painting a room or hanging out near a paint job will harm you or your baby.

If you want to be on the safe side, steer clear of fumey solvent-based paints, latex paints, and spray paints, and leave stripping old paint to someone else to avoid lead exposure. Your best bet is to paint in a well-ventilated area using a water-based paint labeled “low-VOC” or “zero VOC.”

Cleaning products and detergents

According to the CDC, heavy exposure to high-level chemical disinfectants might increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm birth. However, these “high-level” cleaners are typically used in healthcare facilities, salons, and other public spaces to sterilize equipment and shared surfaces. Most household cleaners are safe to use during pregnancy as long as you use them as directed, work in a well-ventilated area, and wear gloves if necessary.

Pesticides

Pesticides are used to kill weeds, fungi, insects, and other pests like rodents in yards and gardens. Exposure to these chemicals has been linked to miscarriages and birth defects. Since there’s no known “safe level,” it’s best to avoid using pesticides and limit your exposure.

Since pesticides are used in farming, residues are sometimes detected on produce. Consuming small amounts is generally thought to be safe, but it’s still a good idea to thoroughly wash or peel your fruits and veggies before eating them. 

Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team

Read more

• Products to avoid when pregnant
• Activities to avoid when pregnant

Sources

• Tobah, Y. B. Is it OK to use hair dye during pregnancy? Mayo Clinic. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. 2017. http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/expert-answers/hair-dye-and-pregnancy/faq-20058484
• Romeo, A RN, PhD. Nailing Down the Facts: Nail Treatment Safety in Pregnancy. MotherToBaby. 2025. Web. https://mothertobaby.org/baby-blog/nailing-down-the-facts-nail-treatment-safety-in-pregnancy/
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3114665/
• Michigan Medicine Healthwise Staff. Insect Repellents Topic Overview. University of Michigan. 2020. Web. https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/uf4815
• National Health Service (NHS). Can paint fumes affect my unborn baby? 2020. Web. https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/pregnancy/can-paint-fumes-affect-my-unborn-baby/
• The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Reproductive Health and the Workplace: About Chemical Disinfectants and Sterilants and Reproductive Health. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). April 3, 2024 Web. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/reproductive-health/prevention/disinfectants.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/repro/disinfectants.html
• The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). About Pesticides and reproductive health. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Dec 13,2023 Web. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/reproductive-health/prevention/pesticides.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/repro/pesticides.html

Mild nausea through the first trimester, a strong sense of smell or a stuffy nose are to be expected, and yet there are some serious pregnancy symptoms you shouldn’t ignore. If you experience any of the symptoms below, call your healthcare provider right away. Even if it turns out to be harmless, it’s always best to play it safe.

Vaginal bleeding: Bleeding during pregnancy can range from mild spotting (which could be benign) or heavier bleeding accompanied by pain and cramping. In some cases, bleeding is a sign of miscarriage, an ectopic pregnancy, or another serious condition. If you notice blood at any point throughout pregnancy (even light spotting), get in touch with your healthcare provider.

Persistent backache: Backaches are common toward the end of pregnancy as your belly gets bigger and pulls your center of gravity forward. However, severe pain or a constant dull backache could be a sign of preterm labor or another health concern.

Decreased fetal movement: If your baby is moving less than usual, it could be a sign something’s amiss. If you’re doing kick counts and know something unusual is happening, it’s a good idea to check with your provider ASAP.

Dizziness or fainting: Mild dizziness is a relatively common pregnancy symptom, but if it happens a lot or results in fainting, it shouldn’t be overlooked. Dizziness could be a sign of low blood pressure, low blood sugar, low iron, or dehydration.

Intense headaches or vision problems: If you experience intense headaches, migraines, blurred vision, or sudden light sensitivity, let your provider know right away. These symptoms could be signs of preeclampsia, which can be life-threatening when left untreated.

Persistent or very high fever: Even when you’re being extra careful, you might catch a virus at some point during pregnancy. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your healthcare provider if you’re unsure.

Severe nausea or persistent vomiting: Some nausea is normal, but if it becomes severe or leads to persistent vomiting, it could be a sign of hyperemesis gravidarum (HG). This condition can lead to dehydration or substantial weight loss during pregnancy and could require hospitalization.

Frequent contractions before 37 weeks: Frequent contractions (a tightening sensation in your belly or cramping pain) could mean you’re going into preterm labor. If you experience more than four regular contractions per hour, call your healthcare provider right away.

Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team

Read more

• Ectopic pregnancy: what you need to know
• Preeclampsia: what you need to know

Sources

• Mayo Clinic Staff. Bleeding during pregnancy: When to see a doctor. Mayo Clinic. 2020. Web. https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/bleeding-during-pregnancy/basics/when-to-see-doctor/sym-20050636
• Stanford Children’s Health. Common Discomforts During Pregnancy. Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital. Web. https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=common-discomforts-during-pregnancy-85-P01207
• Mayo Clinic Staff. Preterm Labor. Mayo Clinic. 2019. Web. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/preterm-labor/symptoms-causes/syc-20376842
• Bryant, Jamil, & Thistle. Fetal Movement. StatPearls. 2020. Web. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470566/
• Johns Hopkins Health. 4 Common Pregnancy Complications. Johns Hopkins University. Web. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/staying-healthy-during-pregnancy/4-common-pregnancy-complications
• Michigan Medicine Healthwise Staff. Fever During Pregnancy. University of Michigan. 2019. Web. https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/tm6620