Substances to avoid

This includes medicines (even common medicines such as aspirin), homeopathic treatments, vitamin supplements, mineral salts, alcohol and tobacco.

If in doubt, speak to your doctor.

A golden rule: do not take anything without your doctor's advice.

Alcohol

Alcohol is a toxic substance for adults, and can be even more harmful to a foetus. Even moderate consumption can be harmful, given that alcohol (just like many other substances) can cross the placenta from the mother's bloodstream into the baby's bloodstream. If the mother consumes alcohol, the baby will have the same blood alcohol level as the mother. Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can impair the development of the foetal nervous system and other tissues.

High alcohol consumption during pregnancy can cause "foetal alcohol syndrome", which may adversely affect the physical and mental development of the foetus in a number of ways. It can cause premature birth, deformities, delayed psychological development, behavioural disorders and delayed growth). Pregnant and breastfeeding women should refrain from drinking alcohol for the sake of their baby's health.

No alcohol during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Tobacco

Tobacco smoke contains more than 4000 different substances, many of which are both harmful and toxic. The main components of tobacco cross the placenta and can affect the foetus. Not only does tobacco harm female fertility and increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy, it also increases the risk of miscarriage, bleeding during pregnancy and premature labour.

There is a high risk of delayed growth in the foetus. Tobacco is also responsible for increased rates of mortality in utero and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). It also reduces milk supply for breastfeeding mothers. Do not smoke while pregnant or breastfeeding, and avoid smoky places as passive smoking can harm your baby. Pregnancy is an ideal time to stop smoking. Discuss it with your doctor.

Do not smoke during pregnancy and breastfeeding.