17 Pregnancy Do’s and Don’ts That Most Moms Don’t Know
Pregnancy is full of changes, and not all advice is as straightforward as it seems. That’s why we’ve put together 17 Pregnancy Do’s and Don’ts That Most Moms Don’t Know—covering everything from food myths to must-have safety tips. Whether it’s your first baby or your third, these practical insights will help you stay healthy and confident throughout your pregnancy.
Surprising Pregnancy Do’s
1. Do Eat Sushi—With Caution
Cooked sushi like shrimp tempura or avocado rolls is generally safe. Avoid raw fish to prevent exposure to parasites and bacteria.
*Try this: *Cooked Sushi Pack on Amazon
2. Do Get a Flu Shot
The flu shot is safe during pregnancy and helps protect both you and your baby from serious illness.
*Stay protected: *Flu Vaccine Info + Appointment Kit
3. Do Sleep on Your Left Side
Sleeping on your left improves circulation and helps your kidneys efficiently remove waste and fluids.
*Better sleep starts here: *Pregnancy Body Pillow
4. Do Eat for One (and a Half)
You only need an extra 300–500 calories a day in the second and third trimesters—not double portions.
5. Do Keep Moving
Exercise helps with circulation, mood, and energy. Walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga are all great choices.
*Ease your workouts: *Maternity Support Belt
6. Do Take Prenatal Vitamins Before You’re Pregnant
Start prenatals ideally a month before conception to build folic acid levels and prevent neural tube defects.
*Top pick: *One A Day Women’s Prenatal 1
7. Do Indulge Cravings—Smartly
Satisfy your cravings with healthier swaps. For example, try dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate.
8. Do Monitor Your Mental Health
Pregnancy hormones can affect your mood. Don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor or a therapist.
*Mental wellness: *Pregnancy Journal and Mood Tracker
9. Do Travel (With Precautions)
Air travel is safe up to 36 weeks, but stay hydrated, wear compression socks, and walk around regularly.
*Travel essential: *Compression Socks for Pregnancy
Surprising Pregnancy Don’ts
10. Don’t Drink Herbal Teas Without Checking
Some herbs (like licorice root or raspberry leaf) can trigger contractions. Always double-check ingredients.
👉 *Safe option: *Earth Mama Organic Pregnancy Tea
11. Don’t Eat Too Much Tuna
Limit tuna due to mercury content. Choose low-mercury fish like salmon or tilapia instead.
12. Don’t Ignore Dental Care
Hormonal changes can lead to gum disease. Keep up with brushing, flossing, and dental visits.
👉 *Try this: *Gingivitis-Fighting Mouthwash
13. Don’t Sit or Stand Too Long
Take breaks to stretch and elevate your feet to reduce swelling.
14. Don’t Use Retinol-Based Skincare
Retinoids can be harmful to the baby. Switch to pregnancy-safe skincare products.
👉 *Bump-friendly skincare: *Belly Oil for Stretch Marks
15. Don’t Overheat in Saunas or Hot Tubs
High temperatures in early pregnancy can increase risk of neural tube defects. Opt for warm baths instead.
16. Don’t Clean the Litter Box
Cat feces can carry toxoplasmosis. Let someone else handle litter box duty.
17. Don’t Panic Over Every Slip-up
Missed a vitamin? Had a bite of soft cheese? Don’t worry. One mistake isn’t likely to harm your baby.
