Household chores pregnant women should not engage in

Women generally gain weight during pregnancy. This requires a rebalancing of their bodies as the weight is concentrated on their belly region mostly. This makes it hard for them to move around and do other activities. To avoid pregnancy stress, you must balance work and rest. 

Some household chores may put undue stress on the body and potentially harm the unborn child. These household chores should be avoided because stress hormones in pregnant women increase when they perform repetitive tasks. 

According to a research by Kathleen Doheny on WebMD, here are some household chores to avoid while pregnant.

1. Cleaning of litter

One of the household chores to avoid is cleaning litter because when you clean litter, you may be at risk of contracting infections that harm your pregnancy.

However, if you have no one to help you clean the litter, make sure you wear gloves, a nose and mouth mask, and also a coat to cover your clothing from getting contaminated with microbes. 

2. Use of harsh chemicals

To avoid pregnancy-related complications, do not use insecticides and other cleaning products. For example, Piperonyl butoxide, a chemical used for insecticides, can harm the development of the fetal brain during pregnancy. 

It is advisable to look for natural products that are free of toxic and harsh chemicals.

3. Tasks involving climbing

Some house chores require climbing. This should be avoided by pregnant women because climbing a ladder or stool when you are carrying the weight of another living being within you can throw you off balance. It could also harm the baby, leading to premature placenta separation.

When performing such tasks, you should seek assistance for your and your baby’s health.

4. Tasks that require bending

Some of the chores that require bending include, washing clothes, mopping, and cleaning the floor. 

Pregnant women should avoid chores that will require them to bend because weight gain during pregnancy can cause a marginal shift in the body’s center of gravity, making bending while pregnant dangerous for the sciatic nerve (which runs from the lower back to the leg). 

Immediately you feel uncomfortable while performing any of these tasks, you should stop right away.

5. Standing for a long time

Pregnant women should avoid tasks that require standing for long periods of time. 

Standing for a long time causes swelling and back pain due to pressure on your feet. 

Whenever you are involved in tasks that require standing for a long time, like cooking, take breaks frequently and avoid standing for long periods of time.

6. Carrying heavy objects

Any tasks involving moving, lifting, or carrying heavy objects should be avoided during pregnancy because they can increase the risk of strain and back injury. 

It could also cause the tough tissues in the joints and pelvic floor to become loosened as a result of hormonal changes during pregnancy. This could result in an increased likelihood of injury. 

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