When you find out that you are pregnant, you will want to go to your obstetrician as soon as possible. You will want to make sure to take prenatal vitamins quickly so that you can avoid birth defects. You will also want to begin making lifestyle choices so that you can protect your baby.

1. Do Not Eat Shellfish and Avoid Tuna

One of the most important foods to avoid while you are pregnant is shellfish. Consuming shellfish will increase the odds that you could get food poisoning and will also harm your child if it increases the amount of mercury that you are consuming. For example, you may want to avoid eating tuna because it can be high in mercury. 

2. Do Not Smoke

Never smoke cigarettes when you are pregnant. Cigarettes have been linked to infants having a low birth rate. Cigarettes are also bad for your own health, which can indirectly affect the health of your child.

3. Do Not Use a Hot Tub

Hot tubs might seem really comfortable, but they can raise your core body temperature to a point where you might place your baby at risk. You do not want your water to be in excess of 104°F. Hot tubs also become breeding grounds for germs.

4. Do Not Drink Lots of Coffee

You can consume some coffee, but you do not want to consume more than two cups. Otherwise, you might place your child at risk of developing birth defects. If you need a pick-me-up, one of the best alternatives to coffee is to drink fruit juice. Also, make sure to take care of yourself so that you'll feel energized. Just because your pregnant, that doesn't mean you have to stop exercising.

5. Do Not Clean Your Cat's Litter Box

Cleaning your cat's litter box can place your child at risk. There's an organism called Toxoplasma gondii that can lead to miscarriages and stillbirths. If you do need to change your cat's litter box, make sure to wear rubber gloves and also make sure to wash your hands immediately afterwards. 

6. Do Not Fly Late in Pregnancy

You will usually be able to fly safely. However, you will not want to fly during your last month of pregnancy. The plane might not land fast enough for you to receive medical assistance. You'll also not want to fly on a plane if there is a strong possibility that you will go into preterm labor. You'll want to speak with your obstetrician about all of the potential risks you might be facing.

To get more information about pregnancy, visit an obstetrician in your area.