8 things a pregnant woman can do

Pregnancy is a magical phase in a woman’s life. But, as it is a period that inspires care, it usually generates many doubts – the simplest, such as, “Can a pregnant woman dye her hair?”; even the most complex, such as “at what period of pregnancy can a pregnant woman travel by plane?”.

It is worth mentioning, however, that, although the period requires care, it is possible for the pregnant woman to maintain a routine without many restrictions. Below, for example, is a list of eight things a pregnant woman can do. Check out:

1. Depilation

Most women can’t live without waxing, right? And the good news is that pregnant women can, yes, continue to shave during pregnancy – that is, in the traditional way, with wax, since its composition does not pose any risk to the baby.

But, it is worth noting, it is normal for women to feel greater discomfort when shaving, especially in the groin area. “The chance of ingrown hairs is much greater (since the skin becomes thicker), and the pain is also much greater at this stage, due to increased local sensitivity”, explains Alessandra Bedin, gynecologist at Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein.

Laser hair removal should be avoided at this stage. Therefore, it is best to continue using the wax method – which should be warm, not hot.

2. exercise

Anyone who thinks that a pregnant woman should be “resting” all the time is wrong, avoiding moving around. Of course, rest is necessary in cases of high risk pregnancies or, if these are the medical guidelines (since each pregnant woman has her own particularities).

However, in general, in a pregnancy that goes well, the woman can and should exercise, as highlighted by gynecologist Alessandra Bedin. “You only need to avoid excessive cardiovascular overload and exercises that risk trauma or joint impingement,” she explains.

Therefore, although physical activities are highly recommended during pregnancy, it is very important that the woman talks to her doctor about the type of exercise she intends/should practice.

3. Having sex

Many people believe that a woman who is pregnant cannot/should not have sex. Alessandra Bedin explains, however, that if the pregnancy is low risk, sex is normal. “Just maybe get a little more sensitive,” she says.

Keila Oliveira, psychologist, sexologist and sex therapist, adds that sex during pregnancy makes the couple closer, it is good for health and that is exactly why it is so recommended.

According to sex therapist Keila, some women even report feeling more mood and pleasure during pregnancy.

4. Sleep on your stomach

Alessandra Bedin points out that a pregnant woman can sleep on her stomach as long as her belly or spine doesn’t bother her.

That’s because, there are no contraindications to sleeping on your stomach. If the pregnant woman feels comfortable, fine! The only problem is that, from the fourth month of pregnancy, the abdominal volume increases a lot and the tendency is for the position to become somewhat uncomfortable.

From there, the ideal is for the woman to adopt the left side position, with the left leg stretched out and the right leg bent to sleep.

To increase comfort, a tip is to use a small pillow between your legs and a large one to support your belly. In this way, it takes the weight off the belly, improves blood circulation, keeps the spine aligned and prevents muscle pain.

5. Enter the sea and the pool

The beach is open to future moms. The sea bath helps to relax and promotes a feeling of well-being. Alessandra Bedin points out, however, that they just need to be careful with their balance and strong waves. They should avoid the impact of water on the belly and prefer quieter places.

“It is also necessary to protect yourself from the sun”, recalls the doctor.

Another recommendation for pregnant women who go to the beach and/or pool is not to wear wet clothes for a long time, to avoid candidiasis, a very common problem in pregnancy.

There are no contraindications regarding swimming pools. But it is also necessary to protect yourself against the sun in this case. “But water is excellent exercise, as it relieves the weight of the belly on the spine”, adds gynecologist Alessandra.

6. Traveling by plane

Alessandra Bedin explains that pregnant women can travel by plane, as long as they have a low-risk pregnancy. “If it’s long trips, you need: wearing elastic stockings, plenty of hydration and getting up about every hour to improve circulation,” she says.

“In cases of slightly higher risk, we often end up using some type of anticoagulant”, adds the doctor.

Also according to the gynecologist, airlines require, between the 20th and 36th weeks, a letter from the doctor authorizing the trip. Before 20 weeks, nothing is needed. “After 36 weeks, the plane trip is only possible if the doctor is with the pregnant woman”, highlights Alessandra Bedin.

7. Apply hair dye

Although this is a common concern among pregnant women, Alessandra Bedin explains that pregnant women can use ammonia-free hair dye (toner) from the 14th week onwards.

8. Take anesthesia

In general, pregnant women can take anesthesia for dental treatments. That’s because most local anesthetics used by dentists are safe for pregnant women. But, of course, it is necessary to inform the dentist about the pregnancy as soon as possible (if it is not already apparent).

Can a pregnant woman work until the end of pregnancy?

This is another common question. Most women wonder how long during pregnancy they will be able to continue working normally.

Alessandra Bedin explains that if the pregnant woman has a job that requires little physical effort, she will probably be able to work until the last day of pregnancy. “The issue is the discomfort of commuting to work, and back pain mainly”, she says.

Therefore, it is not possible to generalize. Each pregnant woman should observe her needs, difficulties and talk to her (ua) gynecologist – so that together they can assess until what time of pregnancy it is more appropriate for her to continue working.

What a pregnant woman can’t do

Below you can see a list of things that pregnant women cannot or should avoid doing:

1. Laser hair removal. Gynecologist Alessandra Bedin explains that the chance of stains is much greater at this stage. Ideally, wait six months after giving birth to continue or start laser hair removal treatment. During pregnancy, it is best to continue using the wax method.

2. Drinking too much alcohol. Alessandra Bedin points out that small amounts (a toast, for example) are not prohibited. But there is no safe number of doses. So, it is best to avoid, without neurosis. Natural fruit juices and non-alcoholic drinks are good alternatives for this phase.

3. Eat raw food. It is good to avoid eating things that are raw or of dubious quality. Pregnant women should give preference to food prepared at home, with maximum hygiene, and/or in places they trust. In the case of women who really appreciate Japanese cuisine, an alternative is to vary a little, getting to know the cuisine of other places better.

4. Drinking too much coffee. Pregnancy does not prevent a woman from enjoying a good cup of coffee, but as long as it is not overdone. Moderate consumption of caffeine does not pose risks to the baby, but in high amounts – above 300mg a day – it can cause complications. If you really like coffee, choose a time of day to drink it (for example, after lunch) and at other times, opt for a natural juice, for example, or even a glass of water.

5. Excessive consumption of sweets and pasta. Gynecologist Alessandra Bedin highlights that it’s time to choose foods well, without exaggerating the quantity and, yes, abusing quality. Legumes, cereals, vegetables, fruits, among other food groups cannot be lacking in the diet of pregnant women. And that’s why a very important tip is to also count on the follow-up of a nutritionist at this stage.

6. Visiting a sick friend. If the problem is contagious or the person is hospitalized, it is not recommended that the pregnant woman make the visit. The best thing is to call or send an email to your friend wishing you well and explaining the situation.

Finally, gynecologist Alessandra Bedin emphasizes that pregnant women should not miss their prenatal care and clear all their doubts with their doctor or the assistant doctor. “Depending on the case, practically everything is allowed, as long as it is in moderation”, she concludes.

These are just a few examples of what a pregnant woman can and cannot do. It is worth mentioning that each pregnancy has its particularities and, therefore, it is essential to always be in contact with your doctor to clarify any type of doubt.