
Important Changes You Should Make for Your Pregnancy
Pregnancy is an exciting journey, but it also comes with changes—some expected and some surprising. Your daily routine will shift to keep you and your baby healthy, but don’t worry—you’re not alone in this. Every change has a purpose, and with the right adjustments, you can feel strong, healthy, and ready to embrace motherhood.
Prenatal Care: Your First Step
The best way to start your pregnancy on the right foot? Call your doctor. Regular check-ups will help monitor your baby’s development and ensure you’re getting the right care. If you haven’t already, start taking prenatal vitamins with at least 600 mcg of folic acid to support your baby’s brain and spine development. Folic acid is essential in the early weeks, even before you know you’re pregnant, as it helps prevent neural tube defects.
In addition to your doctor’s visits, listen to your body. Fatigue, nausea, and dizziness are common in the early weeks, so rest when you need to. Stay hydrated and eat small, frequent meals to help with nausea. Every pregnancy is different, so don’t be alarmed if your symptoms vary from what you’ve heard from others.
Say Goodbye to Harmful Substances
Your body is now your baby’s home, which means being extra careful about what you consume. Some things need to be avoided entirely:
- Alcohol, drugs, and cigarettes – These can harm your baby’s development and increase the risk of complications. If you need support to quit, don’t hesitate to seek help.
- Certain medications and herbal remedies – Even over-the-counter medications or natural supplements can be risky. Always check with your doctor before taking anything new. If you want to learn what over-the-counter medicines you can have, read this article.
Watch Out for Toxoplasmosis
Toxoplasmosis is a parasite that can be dangerous for your baby, but you can avoid it by taking simple precautions:
- If you have a cat, let someone else clean the litter box.
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them.
- Be careful with raw or undercooked meat—always cook it fully to kill any parasites.
These small steps can help keep both you and your baby safe.
Make Smart Food Choices
Pregnancy cravings are real, but some foods should be avoided:
- High-mercury fish like swordfish, shark, and king mackerel, as they can harm your baby’s nervous system.
- Raw fish and undercooked seafood, including sushi, to avoid bacteria and parasites.
- Unpasteurized dairy and deli meats, which may carry bacteria like listeria that can be dangerous during pregnancy.
Instead, choose lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to nourish your growing baby. If you’re unsure about a food, check with your doctor.
Be Cautious with X-Rays & Heavy Lifting
If you need an X-ray for any reason, always tell your doctor that you’re pregnant. While many X-rays are safe, extra precautions may be needed to protect your baby.
When lifting objects, be mindful of your body:
- Bend your knees, not your back to avoid strain.
- Avoid carrying heavy bags, furniture, or other large items that could put pressure on your abdomen.
- Ask for help whenever possible—it’s okay to take it easy!
Exercise the Right Way
Staying active is great for both you and your baby, but some adjustments are needed. Regular exercise can help with circulation, reduce swelling, and even make labor easier.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Opt for gentle, low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga.
- Avoid any sports that increase the risk of falls or impact to the belly, like skiing or horseback riding.
- Skip hot yoga and hot tubs, as high temperatures can lead to dehydration and overheating, which isn’t safe for your baby.
Even if you were active before pregnancy, always listen to your body and take breaks when needed.
Be Mindful of Chemicals in Personal & Home Care
Many beauty and cleaning products contain strong chemicals that may not be safe for pregnancy. Here’s how to stay protected:
- Hair dye: Experts aren’t entirely sure how it affects the baby, but since chemicals are absorbed through the scalp, it’s best to wait until the second trimester before dyeing your hair.
- Household cleaners: Use them in a well-ventilated space and consider switching to natural alternatives like vinegar and baking soda.
- Paint and lead exposure: If you live in an older home, be extra careful with chipped paint, lead-containing items, and certain ceramics. Lead exposure can be harmful to a developing baby.
When in doubt, go for safer, natural alternatives.
Create a Safe Home Environment
- Use non-toxic cleaning products whenever possible.
- If your home was built before 1978, check for lead-based paint and avoid scraping or sanding it.
- Limit exposure to strong-smelling chemicals, including insecticides and oil-based paints.
By making small changes, you can create a safe and healthy environment for both you and your baby.
Every Pregnancy is Unique
These are general tips, but your doctor will personalize guidance based on your specific needs. Your body will go through many changes, and it’s important to trust yourself, ask questions, and take things one step at a time. Pregnancy is a time of preparation, adjustment, and excitement.
If you ever feel unsure about something, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor or a trusted pregnancy center for support. At Centro Tepeyac, we are here to help with free resources, guidance, and a safe place to talk. If you have concerns or need support, reach out to us. You don’t have to go through this alone—we are with you every step of the way.  Click here to make an appointment or call us at (301) 587-9516.
Enjoy this beautiful time—you are already doing an amazing job preparing for your little one.