Diwali 2014: 5 precautions pregnant women should take

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Written By: Editorial Team | Updated : October 22, 2014 7:02 PM IST

Air and noise pollution during Diwali reaches its peak. It has a harmful effect on everyone's life, including the ones who are yet to take birth. Yes, pollutants but the loud noise of crackers could be harmful for the fetus and pregnant women apart from newborns, said experts.

'Excessive smoke and pollutants emitted by fire crackers badly affect the health of pregnant woman, exposing them to harsh chemicals and pollutants that could harm the foetus,' said Archana Dhawan Bajaj, gynaecologist and obstetrician. (Read: 5 reasons you should avoid firecrackers this Diwali)

Experts also pointed out that getting carried away during celebrations can put pregnant women at a relatively higher risk, as the loud noise of crackers is as harmful for the mother as for the unborn baby. (Read: Diwali 2014: 8 simple tips for a safe and healthy Diwali)

'Exposure to extremely loud sounds beyond 110 decibels can affect your hearing capacity, whereas exposure to loud sounds (above 85 decibels) can damage your baby's hearing capacity,' said Sumit Mrig, senior consultant and chief cochlear implant surgeon, Primus Super Speciality Hospital. (Read: Diwali 2014: How to celebrate an eco-friendly Diwali)

Here are some precautions pregnant women should take during Diwali

  • Stay indoors and enjoy an eco-friendly Diwali, which is not only better for you but also for the new life taking shape inside your womb,' Bajaj said.
  • 'Women, having respiratory problems, should stay away from pollution as the pollutants can worsen the problem for the baby in the womb,' she added.
  • 'Consume small portions of healthy food and water every two hours. This will prevent them from dizziness, lethargy and fainting attacks,' she added.
  • For newborns, Mrig suggested the use of ear muffs or cotton balls to protect their ears.
  • 'In case you use cotton balls, please ensure they are tightly rolled as loose cotton cannot be adequately positioned and don't push the cotton ball in too deep,' added Mrig. 'If the baby seems to be in pain after a sudden loud noise, please consult your ENT surgeon without any further delay,' he concluded.

With inputs from IANS

Photo source: Getty images


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