What can I do when I'm pregnant?

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When you're pregnant, the whole world suddenly seems full of potential hazards that could harm your baby.

Can I drink? Should I exercise? What can I eat? We separate the facts from the fiction...

Alcohol

Large quantities of alcohol in pregnancy can lead to your baby having Foetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), but no one is sure how small amounts affect a baby. Experts differ in their advice, ranging from saying that it's okay to have two drinks once or twice a week to warning against drinking any alcohol at all.
Verdict: Proceed with caution
- Read more about alcohol in pregnancy

Aromatherapy

Some essential oils are incredibly beneficial in pregnancy, but others aren't safe, so don't use massage oils, pillow sprays or bath products that contain them without first getting the advice of a qualified practitioner. Use blends specially designed for pregnancy, containing oils that are known to be safe.
Verdict: Proceed with caution

Asthma medicine

It's important that you control your asthma, because it's dangerous for your baby to be deprived of oxygen if you have an asthma attack. Let your GP know you're pregnant, and discuss ways that you can manage your asthma and stay safe. Remember to tell your antenatal midwife and the one with you during labour that you're asthmatic, too.
Verdict: Go for it

By Siobhan O'Reilly