What to avoid during pregnancy

A few changes can make pregnancy safer

You do not need a perfect pregnancy routine. Focus on the habits with the clearest health benefits, and ask for help when advice is confusing.

• Avoid alcohol, nicotine, vaping, marijuana, and other recreational drugs. Tell your care team about use so they can help without judgment. ACOG pregnancy guidance
• Check medicines before starting or stopping them. Some prescribed medicines protect your pregnancy. Do not stop them on your own. Avoid ibuprofen and naproxen unless your clinician specifically directs their use, especially from 20 weeks onward. Prescribed low-dose aspirin is a separate situation; follow your OB's instructions. FDA medication guidance
• Practice food safety. Avoid raw or undercooked meat, fish, and eggs; unpasteurized milk products; and raw sprouts. Wash produce. Heat deli meats and hot dogs until steaming hot. CDC food guidance
• Keep caffeine below 200 mg daily. Coffee sizes and caffeine content vary; count tea, soda, and other sources too. ACOG caffeine guidance
• Avoid overheating and activities with a high fall or collision risk. Choose comfortable movement instead. Exercise guidance

Do not assume that an herbal product is pregnancy-safe because it is natural. Bring photos of supplement labels to your visit. Keep prenatal appointments even when you feel well, and do not use an online message for urgent symptoms.