Activities to Avoid During Your First Trimester

Pregnancy is measured in trimesters, with the first trimester occurring over the first three months of pregnancy. During the first trimester --- measured from the date of the last missed period --- a mother may not even know that she is pregnant. In the first trimester, a mother may feel constantly tired or run down, and it is important she takes care of herself during this time. Recognizing activities that may be dangerous to the baby or the mother helps an expectant mother stay safe during her pregnancy.

Alcohol

• The American Pregnancy Association states that there is no amount of alcohol that is safe for a pregnancy. Alcohol can interfere with the healthy development of the fetus. Depending on the amount of alcohol consumed, when it is consumed and how often the alcohol is consumed, it can result in developmental disorders. If you are trying to get pregnant, abstain from alcohol entirely.

Paint

• Paint fumes from polyurethane house paint can cause neurological damage in a fetus. While brief exposure to paint is unlikely to harm a fetus, there is a risk that inhaled paint fumes will get into the bloodstream. These chemicals can be dangerous to the fetus. To be absolutely safe during your first trimester, avoid wet paints entirely.

Medication

• During your first trimester, you should avoid all non-essential medication. During the first trimester, the fetus is vulnerable to all chemicals that enter the mother's bloodstream. Consult with your doctor before taking any medication at all. Aspirin and the cough suppressant dextromethorphan are both drugs that should be avoided during the first trimester. Try non-chemical methods of relieving pain before using medication.

Coffee

• While a moderate intake of caffeine is considered to be fine during later stages of pregnancy, caffeine should be avoided entirely during the first trimester. During the first trimester, caffeine can contribute to miscarriage. While you may resume drinking coffee after the first trimester, keep the intake low in order to prevent water and calcium loss.