What you need to know about hygiene: 7 unexpected tips

Since childhood, we are taught basic hygiene skills: leave outdoor shoes at the entrance, wash your hands after using the toilet and before eating. These simple rules help keep your home clean and prevent the spread of infections.

However, there are many other aspects of hygiene that are not so obvious and may raise questions. For example, how to properly care for your ears? How often should you change your socks and underwear? Is it really necessary to make your bed every morning? These and other questions regarding everyday hygiene deserve attention, because the right answers to them can significantly affect our health and well-being. In this article, we have collected recommendations from experts – doctors and scientists who will help you understand these important issues.

TIP #1: Avoid using cotton swabs and ear curettes

The skin lining the ear canal is a natural barrier that protects the ear from dust, dirt and germs. This barrier is very important for maintaining healthy ears. However, like any other part of our body, the skin in the ears is constantly being renewed. Over time, the surface skin cells die and need to be removed from the body to prevent the accumulation of dead particles.

In order for dead cells to be able to leave the ear naturally, the ear canal is equipped with sebaceous and sulfur glands that secrete a special secretion. This secretion, when mixed with dead cells, forms earwax. Although earwax may seem untidy, it plays an important role in protecting the ear by creating a barrier that does not allow dust and germs to penetrate inside.

There is often a desire to remove wax with cotton swabs or other tools to keep the ears clean. However, this can be dangerous and does more harm than good.

What to do

Ears are an organ that has the ability to clean themselves. When we chew food or talk, jaw movements naturally move wax, along with dirt particles, to the outer part of the ear. That is why there is no need to clean the inside of the ear canal regularly. It is enough to gently wipe the auricle with a soft damp cloth or towel from time to time to remove visible traces of wax.

Using cotton swabs, ear curettes or tampons can lead to a significant portion of the wax being pressed deeper into the ear canal, which, in turn, can provoke the formation of a wax plug. In addition, a stick or curette can damage the delicate skin of the ear canal or even the eardrum, which will lead to serious hearing problems.

What to consider

In most cases, according to doctors, ears do not need to be cleaned at all, since they cope with this task on their own. However, there are people who experience increased wax production, a narrow ear canal or a predisposition to infections. In such cases, there is a risk of earwax plugs, which can cause discomfort and hearing loss.

If you suspect that you have earwax plugs, do not rush to use cotton swabs or other improvised means. It is best to put a few drops of baby oil or hydrogen peroxide in your ear. This will help soften the earwax plug, and within 1-2 days it will naturally come out. After this, you can gently rinse your ear with warm water, avoiding sudden movements and strong pressure. It is important to dry the ear by wiping it with a soft towel to prevent water from getting into the ear canal, which can cause irritation.

If discomfort persists after these procedures, it is better to consult an otolaryngologist. A specialist will be able to safely and effectively remove the plug, as well as give recommendations for ear care, taking into account your individual characteristics.

Tip #2: Change your socks once or twice a day

Why is this important?

The skin of your feet actively secretes sweat, which is necessary to regulate body temperature and prevent overheating. Sweat contains various substances, such as lipids, proteins and hormones. Although sweat itself is almost odorless, these components become a breeding ground for bacteria living on the skin. As a result of the bacteria’s activity, volatile compounds are formed, which give sweat an unpleasant odor.

These bacteria begin to actively multiply immediately after favorable conditions are created, such as high humidity and temperature. Therefore, most people who put on clean socks in the morning already have a characteristic unpleasant odor from their feet by the evening. This happens because bacteria have time to process the components of sweat during the day, releasing metabolic products that cause the odor.

What to do

In order to avoid an unpleasant odor and reduce the risk of developing skin diseases, it is recommended to change your socks at least once a day. This simple step will help prevent bacteria from accumulating on the skin and fabric of your socks, as well as reduce the likelihood of developing fungal and bacterial infections that can affect the skin of your feet and nails.

If you are in high-temperature conditions, such as in the heat, are actively involved in sports, or suffer from excessive sweating of the feet, you should change your socks more often – twice a day. Frequent changing of socks helps keep your feet dry, which significantly slows the growth and reproduction of bacteria and fungi that love a moist environment.

How to choose socks?

It does not matter what material your socks are made of – they should be changed 1-2 times a day. However, materials can still affect the comfort and health of your feet. If you are prone to fungal infections or you often experience rubbing of the feet, choose socks made of materials that wick moisture away from the skin, such as polyester or acrylic. These materials promote rapid evaporation of moisture, which helps keep your feet dry.

People with excessive sweating of the feet are better off with socks that not only absorb moisture but also provide good ventilation. Such products help maintain a cool and dry environment for the feet, reducing the risk of excessive sweating. Usually, socks made of natural materials such as cotton or wool are used for this purpose. These fabrics allow the skin to breathe and prevent the feet from overheating, which is especially important in the warm season.

Also, do not forget that socks need to be washed after each use. Even if the socks do not look dirty, bacteria and fungi can remain on their surface, which will begin to multiply when worn again. Regularly washing socks helps prevent the accumulation of microorganisms and keeps your feet healthy.

Tip #3: Wear underwear as long as it retains its shape and comfort

Why is this important

Some sources recommend changing underwear, especially underwear, every 6 to 12 months. This advice is related to the fact that over time, the fabric can accumulate microbes that can cause various infections. This is especially true for underwear that is worn daily and is often exposed to sweat and other body secretions.

Underwear, as a rule, fits tightly to the body and creates a warm, moist environment, which is ideal for the reproduction of bacteria and fungi. Microorganisms found on the skin, mucous membranes of the genitals or getting on the fabric with feces can survive in such an environment and, under certain conditions, cause infectious diseases. For example, some types of bacteria can cause cystitis or other urogenital infections.

What to do

Despite the fact that the risk of microorganisms accumulating in underwear exists, regularly changing and washing underwear significantly reduces this danger. If a person changes underwear daily and washes it after each wear, using modern detergents, most microbes die. Modern washing powders and gels contain active ingredients such as bleach activators and antibacterial additives that effectively destroy most bacteria and fungi even at low water temperatures.

Even if a small number of microorganisms survive washing, they do not pose a serious threat to health. The body’s immune system is strong enough to cope with this amount of microbes and prevent the development of infection. An important aspect is the regularity of changing underwear and thorough washing, which allows you to maintain the necessary level of hygiene and reduces the risk of disease.

Features and service life of underwear

Regular changing and washing of underwear helps to minimize the microbiological hazard, so underwear does not have a strict expiration date. If your underwear remains intact, does not lose its shape and still fits comfortably, you can continue to wear it.

However, it is important to pay attention to the condition of the fabric. If the underwear begins to lose elasticity, stretches or loses its shape, it may no longer provide the necessary support and comfort. In such cases, it is better to replace it with a new one to maintain maximum comfort and hygiene.

It is also worth considering individual preferences and feelings. If you feel that your underwear is no longer as comfortable as it used to be, or you feel discomfort, this may be a signal that it is time to update your wardrobe.

Tip #4: Shower Daily

Why It Matters?

The question of how often to shower is controversial both among experts and in popular literature. Some experts insist that daily washing is necessary to remove dirt, sweat and dead skin cells. However, there is an opinion that frequent washing can be harmful, since it washes away not only dirt, but also sebum – a natural oil that moisturizes the skin, maintains its microbiome and partially protects against ultraviolet radiation.

What to do?

Sebum plays an important role in protecting the skin, but it is also a breeding ground for bacteria that live on the surface of the skin. These bacteria process the components of sebum, and their waste products create a characteristic body odor.

Sebum is especially actively produced in young people during puberty, as well as in those who wear synthetic clothing, do physical work, or spend a lot of time in hot conditions. In such cases, it is recommended to shower every day to control body odor and maintain hygiene at the proper level.

Features and recommendations

To avoid overdrying the skin, especially in the summer, it is recommended to shower daily, using warm, but not hot water. It is better to limit the duration of the shower to 10 minutes, and to cleanse the skin, choose soft shower gels that do not contain dyes and strong fragrances. Such products gently remove excess sebum without disturbing the protective barrier of the skin.

There is no need to wash your hair every day, unless your hair tends to get dirty quickly, such as in people with oily scalps or those who play sports.

In winter, you can shower every other day, as the skin tends to get dry during this period due to cold air and heating. However, the rules remain the same: use warm water and mild detergents to avoid overdrying the skin.

Tip #5: Make your bed an hour after waking up

Why is this important?

Making your bed protects your bedding from dust and dirt. However, there is a hypothesis that damp sheets covered with a bedspread can promote the proliferation of dust mites – microscopic organisms that can cause allergies in some people. If the bed is left unmade, the sheets dry out and the number of mites may decrease.

What to do?

For people with dust allergies, simply drying the bed will not solve the problem, since the allergy can be caused not only by live mites, but also by their dead remains. To minimize the number of dust mites, it is important to maintain indoor humidity below 50%, use dust-proof covers for mattresses and pillows, wash bed linen once a week at a temperature of at least +60 °C, and regularly carry out wet cleaning.

However, making the bed some time after waking up is a good habit. It allows the bed to dry, which makes sleeping on it more comfortable and slows down the proliferation of bacteria that can cause an unpleasant odor.

Features and recommendations

Although there is no scientific consensus on whether it is necessary to make the bed every day, this habit has more pros than cons. A made bed not only keeps the room tidy, but also helps to set the tone for a productive day.

If you let your linen dry before making your bed after waking up, the benefits of this action become obvious. To do this, just do other morning chores – wash your face, have breakfast or exercise. In about an hour, the bed linen will be dry and can be neatly tucked.

Tip # 6: Use chlorine-containing cleaning products

Why it is important?

Some people avoid using chlorine-containing cleaning products at home, fearing the release of toxic chlorine, which can be harmful to health. However, the correct use of these products helps to effectively combat dirt and germs.

What to do?

The main component of most such products is sodium hypochlorite (NaClO), which, when dissolved in water, forms chlorine compounds that act as powerful oxidizers. These compounds not only bleach, but also destroy the membranes of viruses and the cell walls of bacteria, making chlorine-containing products effective in the fight against germs.

Chlorine gas is released only in a very acidic environment (pH less than 4). To avoid this, sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is added to cleaning products, which increases the pH of the solution to a safe level. Therefore, when using chlorine-containing products, it is important not to mix them with acidic products such as vinegar or citric acid to avoid the release of harmful gases.

Features and recommendations

When used according to the instructions and with a frequency of use no more than four times a week, chlorine-containing products do not pose a health risk. These products may cause mild irritation if they come into contact with the skin or eyes, but there will be no serious consequences if the affected areas are quickly washed with water.

However, people with dermatitis or asthma should avoid using such products. In people with dermatitis, chlorine-containing products can aggravate the irritation, and in asthmatics, even small amounts of volatile hypochlorous acid, which can be released during cleaning, can trigger an attack.

Tip #7: Don’t be afraid to use public washing machines and laundries

Why it’s important?

Biofilms can form inside washing machines, which are home to conditionally opportunistic bacteria, such as pseudomonas, citrobacter, and serratia. These microorganisms can cause infections in people with weakened immune systems, especially pregnant women, hospitalized patients, and the elderly.

What to do?

To date, cases of infections caused by opportunistic bacteria from washing machines have been reported only in hospitals and large healthcare facilities. There are no reports of customers of laundries or public washing machines in hotels or hostels becoming ill due to these bacteria.

However, people with weakened immune systems, including pregnant women and those taking immunosuppressants, should avoid doing their laundry in public places. When traveling, it is safer to take your clothes to large, reputable laundries or dry cleaners.

Features and recommendations

If you do not have access to a laundromat or dry cleaner, you can minimize the risk by washing in a public washing machine. Adding a product with bleach activator TAED and active oxygen agents to water allows for effective destruction of bacteria. These products work even at a temperature of +40 °C, which makes them suitable for washing colored items and linen made from natural fabrics.

Myth: Children get sick because of walking

There is currently controversy regarding children’s walks. Many pediatricians insist on their importance, while some sources and parents believe they can cause illness. This discussion is especially relevant during colder periods of the year, when many believe it is safer to stay warm at home or school.

For infants, perhaps the location of the walks is not so important, since for them it is more a way of motion sickness than useful physical activity. However, for older children, walks are of great importance. This is an opportunity to spend time outdoors, which contributes to their physical and psychological development.

It is important to understand that the cause of illness in children is not always associated with walks and temperature changes. ARVI and other infections are transmitted through contact with viruses, and not through being outside. Moreover, in enclosed spaces, especially where there are many people, the risk of infection is much higher.

Therefore, walks in the fresh air are useful and safe for children at any time of the year. The main thing is to provide them with appropriate clothing and footwear to protect them from adverse weather conditions and ensure a comfortable stay in nature.

Myth: Nootropics will help your child learn better

What medications can help improve mental health? This is a question that is often asked to psychiatrists and psychotherapists. Nootropic drugs are one answer to this question. They can be used as a stand-alone treatment or in combination with other psychotropic drugs.

For example, nootropics can be prescribed to treat neuroses, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depressive disorders and other mental illnesses, including schizophrenia.

However, the opinion of pediatric neurologists on this issue is divided. Some believe that there is no evidence base for the use of nootropics to improve the quality of learning, stimulate psycho-speech development and correct behavior in children. They urge caution in this matter.

It is important to remember that although nootropics can help in specific cases, doctors should rely on general medical experience and analyze standardized cases. In addition, if problems arise with a child’s behavior or learning, it is important to turn to an integrated approach, including psychological and pedagogical correction and consultations with a neuropsychologist.

ARVI

ARVI in children under one year of age can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia and bronchitis, as well as inflammation of the small airways. One of the main signs of the disease is wheezing, but its presence is observed only in 25-40% of children. And only less than 2% of them require hospitalization. The infection usually lasts about one to two weeks, but in some cases it can last longer

Croup

Croup is a childhood disease caused by parainfluenza viruses. The main symptom of croup is a characteristic “barking” cough, which can be quite memorable. In children, croup can be severe, and up to 6% of cases require hospitalization for medical observation and treatment. Croup usually lasts for about a week, but sometimes symptoms can last longer. Approximately 6 in 100 children get croup each year, and it most often occurs in children under two years of age.

Scarlet fever

Scarlet fever is a condition in which a child develops a rash accompanied by pharyngitis. Typically, the child will have a sore throat and fever. The rash, characterized by a bright red hue and roughness to the touch, spreads throughout the body.

Previously, scarlet fever was considered a dangerous childhood disease, but modern antibiotics can effectively treat this condition. Scarlet fever is now seen more as one of the manifestations of the rash, which is successfully controlled by drug treatment.

Impetigo

Impetigo is a skin condition caused by a bacterial infection. It is the third most common skin disease among children, most often affecting children between the ages of 2 and 6 years. However, the condition is highly contagious and adults can also become infected.

Impetigo appears on the skin as small, itchy blisters or sores that eventually burst, releasing fluid and forming a characteristic honey-colored crust. Treatment for impetigo usually involves the use of antibiotics. Great care is required to maintain skin and environmental hygiene to prevent the spread of infection.

Whooping cough

Whooping cough is a contagious bacterial infection that can affect both adults and children, but is especially dangerous for little ones. Children may have such severe spasms during a coughing attack that it can lead to breathing problems. More than half of infants who develop whooping cough require hospital treatment.

Vaccination has significantly reduced the number of whooping cough cases, but the vaccine is no longer effective after 5 to 10 years, increasing the risk of recurrence in adults who can infect children.

Some tips on how to take care of your eyes if you need to work with gadgets

Be aware of regular blinking – a person typically blinks about 15 times per minute. However, when using gadgets, we blink only 5-7 times per minute. Blinking more often helps moisturize the cornea of the eye, preventing dryness.

When working on a computer or phone, take eye breaks every 20 to 30 minutes. During this time, look away from distant objects or close your eyes for a few seconds to reduce tension.

Use special eye drops to moisturize your eyes, preferably without preservatives, to reduce the risk of irritation. It is recommended to use humidifiers in dry and warm rooms, especially during the heating season.

To reduce eye strain, every 20 minutes, switch your gaze to an object at least six meters away and hold it there for at least 20 seconds.

Adjusting screen brightness and contrast can help reduce eye strain. Setting the contrast to higher can also reduce eye strain.

It is important to sit correctly at the computer – the screen should be at arm’s length and positioned so that your gaze is directed slightly downward, and not straight ahead or up.

Myth: Reading in low light affects your vision

Since childhood, we have been taught that reading in the dark is harmful to our eyesight and can lead to the need to wear glasses. But does scientific research support these fears?
Our eyes adapt to light to provide better vision.

The pupils dilate or contract depending on the level of light to maintain quality vision. Reading in low light can cause eye strain, but your eyes will get used to it.

It is interesting to note that in some parts of East and Southeast Asia, 80-90% of school graduates suffer from myopia. Could this indicate that over-study plays a role in poor vision?

In fact, heredity plays a key role in vision. Even if children with parents with vision problems spend the same amount of time studying as children without vision problems, the results may vary.

Reading or studying in low light may cause eye fatigue, but is unlikely to lead to myopia unless the child has a genetic predisposition to it.

Myth: Eyelash extensions harm your eyesight

Is there a risk of vision impairment with eyelash extensions?

Major vision hazards include eyelid swelling, corneal and eyelid infections, temporary or permanent loss of eyelashes, and other complications.

Conjunctivitis or corneal irritation may occur. Contact with artificial eyelashes or glue may cause a reaction resulting in redness and discomfort in the eyes.

Allergic reactions caused by the use of glue containing formaldehyde are quite common. This chemical, which is a carcinogen, can cause watery eyes, allergic rashes and crusting at the base of the eyelashes, accompanied by itching and discomfort.

There is a risk of erosion of the inner surface of the eyelid, which can lead to damage to natural eyelashes as a result of contact with artificial ones.
Using eyelashes and glue on them can increase the likelihood of infections, which results in redness and irritation of the eyes.

Wearing eyelashes of disproportionate length can cause dry eye syndrome due to improper distribution of weight on the eyelashes.
It is possible to develop alopecia, in which natural eyelashes begin to fall out due to excessive stress caused by the use of artificial eyelashes.

Eyelash extensions are not considered to cause long-term loss of visual acuity or the development of nearsightedness or farsightedness.

• Carry out an information detox by avoiding gadgets two hours before bed.
• Eliminate caffeine at least six hours before you go to bed.
• Maintain regular sleep, go to bed and get up at the same time.
• Go for walks before bedtime, such a relaxed activity will slow your heart ate down and help to release daily stress.
• Create a comfortable environment in your bedroom by keeping it quiet, dark and cool.
• Choose a comfortable mattress and pillow.
• Practice enjoyable pre-bed rituals, such as a bath, a cup of herbal tea, or reading a book.
• Don’t go to bed feeling hungry or overeated.
• If you can’t fall asleep within 15 minutes, get up, read a book, and stay up until you feel sleepy. This approach may promote better sleep on subsequent nights.

How to protect yourself from ARVI?

It is important to carry out hand washing procedures more often and during the epidemic to avoid places with large crowds of people.

To maintain overall immunity, it is recommended to eat a regular and varied diet, not skip meals, get enough sleep and exercise.

When a person encounters a variety of ARVI viruses, his immunity begins to form a specific defense against them. This process provides the body with better protection against reinfection by the same or similar viruses in the future.

In the case of influenza, vaccination against the current season’s circulating strains helps build immunity to the virus, which helps prevent or mitigate the disease.

The number of acute respiratory viral infections considered normal for children is no more than 6 cases per year, while for adults this number usually ranges from 2-3 cases. An increased incidence of illness may indicate the presence of a chronic infection in the body.

For example, if a person often experiences relapses of otitis media, sinusitis or pharyngitis, this may indicate similar problems.

The main task in this case is to identify and treat the main causes of regular diseases. An increase in the incidence of illness may also be associated with changes in environmental conditions, for example, in the case of children, visiting child care facilities, and for adults, a change in place of work or place of residence, especially if this involves contact with children.

Myth: ARVI is not a serious disease

Acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI) are the most common infectious diseases. Nine out of ten adults get it seasonally, while children get it up to twice each season, amounting to about 8 cases per year.

These viral colds are easily transmitted from person to person due to their high contagiousness. The disease usually goes away on its own, but sometimes complications can occur.

With acute respiratory viral infection (ARVI), the symptoms usually go away on their own without special treatment. However, impaired immunity can trigger the activation of bacteria on the mucous membrane, which leads to the development of secondary complications. These complications may include diseases such as ear infections, sinusitis, pneumonia and bronchitis.

When viral particles begin to exert their effects, specific complications arise. These may be symptoms of increased intracranial pressure, such as meningism, acute respiratory failure, and also, although rarely, infectious toxic shock.

Most cases of acute respiratory viral infection end without any serious complications, but in adults suffering from chronic diseases, bacterial complications often occur. It is important to monitor your health and not let a common cold lead to the development of more serious problems!

Myth: It is necessary to lower the temperature

When body temperature rises, the body begins to produce interferons – special proteins necessary to fight viruses and bacteria. This process triggers the mechanism of phagocytosis, in which phagocyte cells actively absorb and destroy infectious agents, helping the body cope with the disease.

Fever is often accompanied by headache, aching bones, weakness, chills, loss of appetite and intense sweating.
Doctors advise refraining from taking antipyretic drugs if the temperature does not exceed 38-38.5 °C.

When the temperature rises, the body begins to produce interferons – these are proteins that are necessary to fight viruses and bacteria. This process activates the mechanism of phagocytosis – the absorption and destruction of infectious agents by phagocyte cells, which helps the body cope with the infection.

The most effective approach is to adhere to strict bed rest, giving the body maximum opportunity to rest and recover. If a viral disease is carried actively, without proper rest, this can lead to undesirable consequences and complications in the future. In addition, an ill person may pose a risk of infection to others.

What to do if your leg cramps while swimming?

When you encounter a cramp in your leg, immerse yourself in water and try to stretch your foot by pulling it towards you. You can also attach a small pin to your trunks: if a cramp suddenly occurs, prick the muscle to relieve the tension and prevent further strain.

If you find yourself in water without the ability to swim, lie down on the water, spread your arms wide, and breathe as deeply and rarely as possible. While in an upright position, move your legs as if you were pedaling.

If you feel tired while swimming

When you feel tired, it is important to give yourself some rest on the surface of the water. Straighten your arms and legs, place your head on the water and allow yourself to relax.

You are caught in a strong current, what should you do?

If you are caught in a strong current, it is important to remain calm and not waste your energy fighting it. It is best to follow the current, smoothly moving diagonally towards the nearest shore.

When you find yourself in the water and feel the current become strong, do not try to resist it directly, this will only drain your strength. Instead, allow yourself to go with the flow, gradually approaching the shore diagonally.

Typical signs of heat stroke include: fever, feeling weak, dizziness, headache and darkness. In some cases, vomiting and diarrhea, as well as nosebleeds, may occur. The skin of the face may become either reddish-purple or pale, and breathing and heart rhythm may be affected.

These symptoms may indicate serious problems with the body’s heat balance and require immediate medical attention.

How to stay healthy in the heat?

• Try to avoid sunlight during the peak period from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Plan your activities for cooler times of the day.
• Reschedule your physical activity and sports to the morning or evening when the temperature is cooler.
• When sunbathing and swimming, stick to alternating times and limit your exposure to the sun. Remember to protect your skin with sunscreen.
• Prefer loose clothing made from light-colored natural materials that allow the skin to breathe. Don’t forget about a hat and sunglasses.
• Avoid closed and stuffy rooms. If possible, install an air conditioner or use a fan to circulate air.
• Drink more often, but in small portions. The preferred drinks are cool liquids without added ice, such as water, fruit juice or still drinks.
• Control your tobacco use, limit your drinking of tea, coffee and alcohol. Add more carbohydrates, a variety of fruits and vegetables, and dairy products to your diet to improve your overall health.

Be sure to remember this and save the information!

These medications are widely available in medicine cabinets and are often used by adults. However, they are contraindicated for children.

The drug aspirin can cause serious complications, including Reye’s syndrome, a dangerous condition that can cause liver and brain problems.

The use of analgin may increase the likelihood of developing agranulocytosis, which can reduce the child’s body’s defenses against infections. In many countries around the world, the use of metamizole has been prohibited for more than half a century.

Under 12 years of age, it is not recommended to use drugs containing vasoconstrictor components, such as Theraflu, Coldrex, Pharmacitron. The dosage of the active substance in one sachet exceeds the safe limit for children. A safer alternative is to give your child Ibuprofen or Paracetamol according to their weight.

First generation antihistamines, such as Suprastin and Tavegil, can cause unwanted side effects, including depression of the central nervous system and cessation of breathing. Therefore, independent use of these drugs, both for yourself and for children, is not recommended.

Antibiotics

It is undesirable to take antibiotics and drugs with teratogenic effects, as they can provoke the appearance of congenital pathologies. Self-medication is unacceptable. It is important to consult a doctor even if you feel minor discomfort.

Extreme sports, long trips

Avoid extreme sports such as diving and skiing, as well as horse riding and skydiving. These activities can pose a risk to pregnancy, increasing the risk of injury and fetal loss. Also avoid situations that may cause high levels of adrenaline.

If you have placenta previa or premature cervical dilatation, women should avoid flying throughout pregnancy. For those in good health, it is recommended to avoid flying after the 36th week of pregnancy due to the possible risk of premature birth.

Exposure to childhood infections such as chickenpox and rubella should be avoided. It is especially important to avoid infectious diseases in the first trimester of pregnancy. It is also recommended to avoid travel to countries with high rates of malaria, typhoid fever and Zika.

Some herbs

Herbal compositions containing plants such as tansy, St. John’s wort, aloe, anise, water pepper, cloves, serpentine, calendula, clover, wormwood and senna can cause miscarriage during pregnancy.

Pay attention to the procedures you attend

Cosmetic procedures such as mesotherapy, Botox injections and photoepilation should be avoided during pregnancy due to the potentially unpredictable effects on the health of the expectant mother and baby. Visiting a Russian bath or sauna is not recommended during pregnancy, especially if you are not used to these procedures.

Watch your diet

When choosing dishes in restaurants and purchasing groceries, you need to be extra careful. Raw meat, fish and seafood can contain parasites, which pose a serious threat to the health of a pregnant woman and her baby.

Alcohol and tobacco smoke

It is recommended to limit alcohol consumption and avoid excessive consumption. It is especially important to abstain from drinking alcohol until the 21st week of pregnancy, until the formation of the embryo’s organs is completed. Tobacco smoke has a negative effect on the placenta, which is a serious threat to the development of the fetus and can lead to the risk of growth retardation and premature birth.