Fatshimetry
Pregnancy is a magical time when a life is growing inside you, which means it’s essential to take care of yourself and your unborn baby. This means paying attention to the household chores you do to avoid any risk to your health and that of your child. Some tasks can be dangerous for pregnant women and their developing babies; so it’s totally okay to take a break from household chores during your pregnancy. In fact, there are some tasks that you should definitely avoid for the safety of yourself and your baby.
Studies show that chronic stress during pregnancy can have negative effects on both mother and baby. High stress levels can increase the risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and even certain birth defects.
So, it is essential to prioritize your well-being and listen to your body. Creating a calm, nurturing environment for yourself and your baby is much more important.
5 types of household chores to avoid during pregnancy
Now that we understand the importance of stress-free household chores during pregnancy, here are some specific tasks you can delegate or avoid altogether:
1. Heavy lifting and straining
Your growing belly shifts your center of gravity, making you more vulnerable to falls and injuries. Carrying heavy grocery bags, dragging baskets of laundry, or moving furniture can put unnecessary strain on your back and abdominal muscles.
Instead, ask your partner, friend, or family member to do the heavy lifting.
2. Mount and balance
Tall shelves suddenly seem a lot taller when you’re pregnant. Avoid climbing ladders, stepladders or precarious furniture to reach high places; anything that requires balancing on a stepladder or ladder gets riskier as your belly grows.
3. Clean with harsh chemicals
Strong fumes from cleaning products can irritate the skin and be potentially harmful to your developing baby. Eliminate bleach, ammonia and other harsh chemicals. If you must use cleaning products, opt for natural, eco-friendly options whenever possible.
Always wear gloves and ventilate the room by opening windows. Better yet, delegate this task entirely. Many cleaning services use safe, baby-friendly products.
4. Handle dust and allergens
Dusting, sweeping, and vacuuming can stir up dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens that can trigger pregnancy rhinitis (stuffy nose) and worsen asthma symptoms. If possible, have someone else do the dusting and vacuuming, wearing a mask if necessary. Consider using disposable cloths to limit your exposure.
5. Changing the litter
Cat owners, this is non-negotiable! This task is best left to someone else. Although owning a cat during pregnancy is generally safe, toxoplasmosis is a concern. Cat stool may contain a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii, which is harmful to your developing baby.
Leave cleaning the litter box to your partner, friend or family member. If you must clean the litter box, wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
You’re not a superwoman (and that’s okay!)
Pregnancy is a journey, and you don’t have to travel it alone. It is essential to prioritize your well-being and the health of your baby. Don’t feel guilty about asking for help with household chores. Rely on your partner, your family, your friends or even external help.
So, get comfortable, take a deep breath, and let others lend you a helping hand. Your developing baby and your sanity will thank you.