Toxoplasmosis
This is a common infection caused by a parasite found in cats' faeces, soil, raw or uncooked meats and unpasteurised 'green
top' milk. It can affect both animals and humans, and can harm unborn babies. This means you can't clear up the cat litter
tray, one advantage of pregnancy. It is important to use gloves to garden and make sure you wash fruit and vegetables thoroughly,
and that you wash your hands regularly and especially if you handling meat. It is best to avoid all unpasteurised milk products
Chemicals and Pesticide
Although best avoided, if you have to use strong household chemicals e.g. weed killers or cleaning fluids, wear rubber
gloves to prevent these harmful substances getting into your body through your skin, better still get someone else to use
them for you or buy natural products.
Oils, bath products
Many essential oils that are great pre-pregnancy are unsuitable for use during pregnancy, for example commonly used oils
like rosemary, lemon, jasmine, cinnamon can be harmful, once you are pregnant before using any oils be sure to check that
they are suitable. Many companies do a specific range for expectant mothers, Kelly from Yorkshire swears by Boots 'Mum to
be' range, or Elemis and Mama Mio (check them out on our shopping directory) do lovely ranges, it could help to use something like this just to be on the safe side.
