Pregnancy is a time to focus on health, but some hidden risks can be surprising.
Here’s a guide to lesser-known things that may affect your pregnancy, based on recent research.
Food/Supplements to Avoid
Licorice Root: A Potential Cognitive Risk
Fact: Consuming licorice root in food or tea during pregnancy is linked to developmental issues. Studies found that a compound in licorice, glycyrrhizin, can impact fetal brain development and may result in cognitive impairments or behavioral issues in children. (source)
Tip: Avoid licorice-flavored foods and licorice root tea, especially during the first and second trimesters.
Vitamin A Supplements: Risk of Birth Defects
Fact: High doses of Vitamin A can be toxic and have been linked to severe birth defects. Research by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that taking more than 10,000 IU of preformed Vitamin A (retinol) daily may result in craniofacial, central nervous system, and heart abnormalities. (source)
Tip: Stick to prenatal vitamins and avoid high-dose Vitamin A supplements. Check with your healthcare provider for safe dosages.
Artificial Sweeteners: Possible Impact on Child Obesity
Fact: Artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose are commonly found in diet drinks and sugar-free snacks. According to research in JAMA Pediatrics, consuming artificial sweeteners during pregnancy is linked to an increased risk of childhood obesity. (source)
Tip: Avoid sugar substitutes, and if you need a sweet treat, choose natural sugars found in fruits in moderation.
Fenugreek Supplements: Risk of Miscarriage and Preterm Labor
Fact: While fenugreek is often used to support milk production postpartum, it’s not safe during pregnancy. Studies show that fenugreek can stimulate uterine contractions, potentially leading to miscarriage or preterm labor. (source)
Tip: Skip fenugreek during pregnancy and discuss safe supplements for lactation support with your healthcare provider after delivery.
Unripe or Semi-Ripe Papaya: Potential to Induce Contractions
Fact: While papaya is generally safe in moderate amounts, large quantities—especially of unripe papaya—contain enzymes that may stimulate uterine contractions. (source)
Tip: Eating this fruit in small amounts is safe, but avoid large portions of unripe papaya or eating papaya seeds.
Soft Cheese and Deli Meats: Risk of Listeria Infection
Fact: Soft cheeses and deli meats are at a higher risk for carrying Listeria, a bacterium that can lead to severe infection in pregnant women and cause miscarriage, preterm birth, or stillbirth. (source)
Soft cheeses, which are high in moisture, are more likely to be contaminated than hard cheeses.
Other food at high risk for carrying Listeria include:
- Raw fish or shellfish (sushi, sashimi, raw oysters, clams, and mussels)
- Pre-made or store-bought deli salads like egg salad, chicken salad, ham salad, seafood salad, or anything containing mayonnaise stored in the deli section
- Fresh produce can carry Listeria, so thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables
- Refrigerated cured meats like salami, prosciutto, and pepperoni. These are safer if cooked or heated.
- Unpasteurized fruit and vegetable juices
- Raw or rare cuts of meat, such as steak tartare or rare/medium-rare steaks.
Tip: Avoid soft cheeses like brie, blue cheese, and queso fresco unless they’re made with pasteurized milk, and always reheat deli meats to a steaming temperature before eating. Don’t rinse meat. Rinsing raw meat can spread bacteria onto nearby surfaces due to splashing. Cooking meat to the proper temperature will kill any bacteria, so rinsing is unnecessary.
Use a Food Thermometer: A thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure meat is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Poultry (whole or ground): 165°F
- Ground meats (beef, pork, lamb, veal): 160°F
- Whole cuts of beef, pork, lamb, veal: 145°F, with a resting time of 3 minutes
Raw Sprouts: High Risk of E. coli and Salmonella
Fact: Raw sprouts, including alfalfa, radish, and clover, may carry E. coli or Salmonella bacteria, which can cause serious foodborne illnesses. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), sprouts are one of the top sources of these bacteria. (source)
Tip: Always cook sprouts before eating them, or choose cooked alternatives for salads and sandwiches.
Vitamin E Supplements: Risk of Abdominal Pain and Early Rupture of Membranes
Fact: While Vitamin E is essential, taking it in high doses through supplements during pregnancy has been associated with abdominal pain and even early rupture of membranes (EROM). High doses may also increase bleeding risk due to its anticoagulant properties. (source)
Tip: Avoid high-dose Vitamin E supplements during pregnancy unless prescribed by a healthcare provider. Stick to prenatal vitamins with safe levels of Vitamin E.
Iron Supplements on an Empty Stomach: Increased Risk of Nausea and Digestive Issues
Fact: Iron is crucial during pregnancy, but taking iron supplements on an empty stomach can lead to nausea, constipation, and acid reflux, especially during the first trimester. (source)
Tip: Take iron supplements with meals to minimize digestive discomfort. Pair it with Vitamin C-rich foods like oranges to enhance absorption.
Black Seed Oil: Potential Uterine Stimulant
Fact: Black seed oil (Nigella sativa) is often used for immune health, but studies suggest that taking amounts greater than those found in foods while pregnant may stimulate uterine contractions, increasing the risk of preterm labor. (source)
Tip: Avoid black seed oil supplements during pregnancy. Consult with a healthcare provider about safer immunity-support options.
Large Amounts of Canned Tuna: High Mercury Content
Fact: While fish is a great source of omega-3s, some types, including canned tuna, may contain high mercury levels. Research found that mercury can harm fetal brain development if consumed in excess. (source)
Tip: Limit canned tuna to no more than one serving per week, and opt for lower-mercury fish like salmon or sardines.
Overconsumption of Carrots and Sweet Potatoes: Risk of Vitamin A Overload
Fact: While beta-carotene is safe, excessive intake from large amounts of carrots and sweet potatoes could lead to a buildup of Vitamin A, potentially causing toxicity. (source)
Tip: Include a variety of vegetables in your diet and avoid consuming too much of any single food source high in Vitamin A.
Consuming Aloe Vera Juice: Potential for Uterine Contractions
Fact: Aloe vera juice, while popular for digestive health, can stimulate uterine contractions due to compounds called anthraquinones. Research advises against using aloe vera internally during pregnancy. (source)
Tip: Avoid aloe vera juice or supplements and instead use it topically in products designed for skin care if needed.
Undercooked Eggs in Dressings and Desserts: Risk of Salmonella
Fact: Some dressings (like Caesar) and desserts (like mousse or tiramisu) contain raw or undercooked eggs, posing a risk of Salmonella infection. (source)
Tip: Choose pasteurized eggs if eating dressings or desserts made with eggs, or make sure they are fully cooked.
Is It Safe to Drink Tea During Pregnancy?
Many teas can be safe—and even beneficial—during pregnancy. However, some should be avoided. Here’s what you need to know.
Considerations for Pregnant Women Drinking Tea
Most teas are safe to drink in moderation during pregnancy. However, it’s essential to keep a few things in mind:
– Watch the Caffeine: Black, green, and white teas contain caffeine. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) suggests limiting caffeine to under 200 mg daily during pregnancy. For comparison:
– Black tea: ~50 mg per cup
– Green tea: ~25 mg per cup
– Grande iced coffee (Starbucks): 185 mg caffeine
– Grande iced matcha latte: 80 mg caffeine
– Be Cautious with Herbal Teas: Despite their natural appeal, not all herbal teas are safe during pregnancy. It’s best to consult your healthcare provider about any herbal tea you plan to consume. According to research, fewer than a third of pregnant women inform their doctors about their use of herbal products. (source)
– Limit Sugar Intake: Bottled teas and teas from coffee shops can be high in sugar, which may be risky for gestational diabetes.
Safe Teas During Pregnancy
The following teas are generally safe to consume in moderation:
– Ginger Tea: Known for relieving morning sickness, studies show ginger is generally safe for pregnant women, though it’s always wise to consult your doctor.
– Peppermint Tea: Often used to soothe upset stomachs, peppermint tea is typically considered safe. However, some people experience heartburn from it.
– Green Tea: Safe if limited to less than three cups a day, as it contains catechins, which can reduce folic acid absorption—a critical nutrient during pregnancy.
– Black or White Teas: Safe when consumed moderately. Keep in mind the caffeine content and that black tea can contain catechins similar to green tea.
Teas to Avoid During Pregnancy
Some herbal teas, such as chamomile, may be linked to preterm labor or low birth weight. (source)
Here’s a list of teas and herbs to avoid during pregnancy:
- Alfalfa
- Aloe
- Angelica
- Barberry
- Black cohosh
- Blue cohosh
- Boldo
- Borage
- Buckthorn
- Bugleweed
- Cascara sagrada
- Cassia
- Cat’s claw
- Chamomile
- Cinnamon
- Clover
- Comfrey
- Damiano
- Devil’s claw
- Dong quai
- Ephedra (called ma huang in traditional Chinese medicine)
- European mistletoe
- Fennel in high doses
- Fenugreek
- Feverfew
- Frankincense
- Goldenseal
- Gotu kola
- Hibiscus
- Hops
- Horehound
- Jimsonweed (estramonio, moonflower)
- Juniper berry
- Kava
- Labrador
- Lady’s Mantle
- Lemongrass
- Licorice root
- Lovage
- Maidenhair fern
- Mistletoe
- Motherwort
- Mugwort
- Nettle leaf
- Oregano
- Passion flower
- Pau d’arco
- Pennyroyal
- Pokeroot
- Rhubarb
- Rosemary
- Rue
- Sage
- Saint John’s Wort
- Sassafras
- Saw palmetto
- Shepherd’s purse
- Vetiver
- Wild yam
- Wormseed
- Wormwood
- Yarrow
- Yerba mate
- Yohimbe
Consult your healthcare provider before drinking any herbal teas not on this list. While foods containing small amounts of some of these herbs are usually safe, the concentrations in teas may pose risks.
Pregnancy-Specific Teas
Some teas marketed for pregnancy may contain herbs like raspberry leaf, nettle leaf, and lemongrass. While red raspberry leaf is traditionally used to support pregnancy, there’s limited research on its safety. It’s recommended to avoid these teas in the first trimester and limit consumption later on.
Other Things to Avoid
Almond Oil for Skin Care: Use with Caution
Fact: While almond oil is a popular moisturizer, daily application of almond oil on the abdomen has been associated with a higher risk of preterm birth (PTB). (source) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22926840/
Tip: Use almond oil occasionally rather than daily, and consult with your healthcare provider about safe alternatives for skin hydration.
Lavender Essential Oil: A Hormone Disruptor in Early Pregnancy
Fact: Lavender oil, often used for relaxation, contains compounds that may interfere with hormone production. Research suggests that lavender can mimic estrogen, potentially impacting fetal development in the first trimester. (source)
Tip: Avoid lavender oil in the first trimester and use it sparingly afterward. Consult with your doctor before using essential oils during pregnancy.
Heating Pads on the Abdomen: Risk of Increased Body Temperature
Fact: Excessive heat on the abdomen during pregnancy can raise core body temperature, which may impact fetal development. Research suggests that prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to neural tube defects in the first trimester. (source)
Tip: Avoid using heating pads directly on your abdomen. If you need heat therapy, apply it to other parts of the body, like the back, and keep the heat level low.
Nasal Decongestants: Risks of Restricted Blood Flow
Fact: Nasal sprays containing pseudoephedrine may constrict blood vessels, which could impact blood flow to the placenta. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends avoiding pseudoephedrine during the first 3 months of pregnancy. (source)
Tip: Check with your doctor before using any nasal decongestants, especially during the first trimester. Consider safer options like saline nasal sprays.
Retinol-Based Skincare: Potential for Birth Defects
Fact: Retinol and retinoid-containing skin products can be harmful if absorbed in high amounts. Retinoids, derived from Vitamin A, are associated with a higher risk of birth defects when taken orally, but they can also be absorbed through the skin, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). (source)
Tip: Switch to pregnancy-safe skincare options and avoid over-the-counter and prescription retinoid products.
Hot Tubs and Saunas: Risk of Overheating
Fact: High temperatures from hot tubs or saunas can increase core body temperature, which may be dangerous in early pregnancy. The American Pregnancy Association states that overheating in the first trimester is associated with a higher risk of neural tube defects and other developmental issues. (source)
Tip: Avoid hot tubs and saunas while pregnant, or limit your time to under 10 minutes and make sure the water temperature is below 100°F (37.8°C).
Activated Skin Whitening Creams: Potential for Mercury Exposure
Fact: Some skin-lightening or whitening creams contain mercury, which can be toxic for both the mother and the developing baby. Mercury exposure has been linked to neurodevelopmental issues in babies. (source)
Tip: Avoid skin-whitening creams during pregnancy and check labels for ingredients like “mercury,” “mercurous chloride,” or “calomel.”
Hair Dye: Chemicals that May Affect Fetal Development
Fact: While the risk is low, some studies indicate that certain chemicals in hair dye, like ammonia and peroxide, may be harmful, especially when used frequently. According to the American Pregnancy Association, it’s best to avoid hair dye in the first trimester. (source)
Tip: If you wish to dye your hair, consider safer options like highlights (which don’t touch the scalp) or natural dyes and wait until after the first trimester.
Overuse of Fluoride-Based Toothpaste: Potential Fetal Development Impact
Fact: Excessive fluoride exposure, especially if you’re in an area with fluoridated water, could increase the risk of dental fluorosis or other developmental concerns. Studies suggesting that too much fluoride may impact fetal brain development. (source)
Tip: Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste, and avoid swallowing it.
Sun Exposure Without SPF: Risk of Hyperpigmentation (Melasma)
Fact: Pregnancy increases melanin production, making the skin more prone to hyperpigmentation or “pregnancy mask” (melasma). (source)
Tip: Use SPF 30 or higher, especially on your face, to prevent melasma and protect against UV rays.
Massage Therapy on Certain Pressure Points: Risk of Premature Labor
Fact: Specific pressure points, particularly around the ankles, can stimulate uterine contractions if massaged during pregnancy. (source)
Tip: Inform your massage therapist of your pregnancy and avoid pressure points associated with labor stimulation.
Sleeping on Your Back After the First Trimester: Risk of Reduced Blood Flow to Baby
Fact: Lying flat on your back in the second and third trimesters can compress major blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the baby. (source)
Tip: Sleep on your left side to improve circulation, and use pillows for comfort and support.
