Things to Avoid During Pregnancy
Clear, simple guidelines to help you feel safe and confident
Pregnancy is a time when your body becomes more sensitive – and certain substances, exposures, and activities can increase risks to you or your developing baby.
This guide simplifies what to avoid, why it matters, and what’s safe instead.
Yinstill’s approach is always balanced and non-judgmental.
You don’t need to be perfect – just informed.
Smoking, Alcohol, and Recreational Drugs
Smoking (all forms)
Can affect baby’s growth and oxygen supply.
Alcohol (beer, wine, spirits)
No safe amount during pregnancy has been established.
Recreational drugs
Avoid cannabis, cocaine, LSD, ecstasy, and all chemical stimulants/depressants.
Foods to Avoid or Limit
Raw or undercooked foods
- Raw meat
- Raw fish
- Raw shellfish
- Undercooked eggs
Why: To reduce risk of infection (Listeria, Salmonella, Toxoplasmosis).
Deli meats (unless heated), unpasteurized cheeses
Why: Possible bacterial contamination.
High-mercury fish
(e.g., tuna steaks, swordfish)
Excess vitamin A
Avoid liver or high-dose vitamin A supplements.
Medications, Herbs, and Supplements to Avoid
Always check with your care provider before taking anything new.
Medications to avoid
- Aspirin (unless directed by your provider)
- Some antihistamines (including Ephedra / Ma Huang)
- Motion sickness / anti-nausea drugs like Bendectin (older versions)
- Epinephrine (non-emergency)
- Sulfonamide antibiotics
- Certain acne drugs (e.g., Accutane)
- Steroids (unless prescribed)
Herbs & natural products to avoid
- Licorice root
- Ginseng
- Agave
- Sage (in high doses; also reduces milk supply)
- Aloe, senna, castor oil, cascara, buckthorn (strong laxatives)
- Diuretic herbs like buchu, horsetail, juniper
Overuse of vitamins
- High-dose Vitamin A
- High-dose Vitamin C
- Strong detox supplements
Environmental & Chemical Exposures
Radiation
- X-rays (unless absolutely necessary)
- CT scans
- Prolonged use of older video display terminals
Toxic fumes
- Paint thinners
- Solvents
- Varnishes
- Adhesives
- Wood preservatives
- Spray paints
- Dry-cleaning chemical fumes
Tip: If painting a baby room, finish 2–3 months before due date.
Industrial chemicals
- Benzene
- Vinyl chloride
- Toluene
- PCB’s
- Mercury vapor (e.g., dental drilling of old fillings)
Personal Care & Household Products to Avoid
Hair dyes (especially in the first trimester)
Many women choose safer, low-chemical alternatives.
Hemorrhoid medications not approved for pregnancy
Choose products your provider recommends.
Antacids containing high aluminum
Check labels or ask your provider.
Hexachlorophene products (e.g., old pHisoHex)
No longer commonly used, but worth noting.
Biological Exposures
Cat litter (Toxoplasmosis risk)
Have someone else clean the litter box; wash hands after gardening.
Raw soil contaminated by animal feces
Wear gloves when gardening.
Hormones & Fertility-Disrupting Chemicals
Synthetic hormones
- Birth control
- DES (rare today)
- Residual hormones in non-organic meats
Pesticides, herbicides, insecticides
These are designed to disrupt reproduction in pests – avoid skin contact and fumes.
Heat, Sauna, and Temperature Extremes
Prolonged exposure to:
- Hot tubs
- Saunas
- Steam rooms
- Very high-heat environments
Why: Can raise core temperature above safe levels early in pregnancy.
High-Risk Activities
(Not in your original list – adding because they are common patient questions.)
Avoid:
- Contact sports
- Water skiing
- Scuba diving
- Amusement park rides
- Heavy lifting without proper support
A Balanced Final Message
Pregnancy is not about living in fear – it’s about awareness.
Most of these substances and exposures are easy to avoid once you know what to look for.
And if you ever feel unsure, ask us.
We’re here to help you feel safe, calm, supported, and confident every step of the way.
