Starting a new family represents a new stage in life, with sympathetic changes to prepare for that new life as a growing family unit. Home renovation is a huge part of the preparation process for that life, but carrying out any refurbishment or redecoration work while pregnant can present unique health risks. As such, it is important for you to know what is safe for you to attempt during the course of your renovation work.
Tools
While many basic tasks and renovation projects are safe for pregnant people to carry out, it is not recommended to attempt to use power tools. If you are pregnant, you are more prone to moments of instability and light-headedness, making the operation of machinery dangerous to you and potentially to other around you. Where possible, you should recruit someone else to carry out any sawing or drilling required as part of your renovation project, and limit yourself to tasks with a lighter physical demand, such as painting, finishing and constructing furniture.
Toxic Substances
Home renovation can put you into contact with a number of noxious or otherwise toxic substances, from powerful cleaning chemicals to varnishes and paints. Naturally, these substances present a hazard for pregnant people, as they can cause a range of complications in pregnancy and birth. Using water-based paints over solvent-based paints is one way to eliminate the possibility of injury to you and your baby while redecorating, but there are other preventative measures you can take to protect yourself and your baby. Purchasing masks, gloves and eye-goggles from authorised PPE suppliers can keep you safe from fumes and spills, while the use of fans can help ventilate spaces.
Ladders and Heights
Travelling to and working from height should be avoided as a general rule for pregnant people, as falling presents a significant risk to both parent and unborn child. The risk of falling is also increased for pregnant people, particularly the heavily pregnant, owing to the change in their centre of gravity. If you are pregnant and intend to work at height, limit yourself to step-stool height, and use a step-stool with a support frame you can hold onto – though it is better to enlist somebody else to do the work on your behalf
Heavy Lifting
Heavy lifting is something which should be completely avoided if you are pregnant. Pregnancy has the effect of softening your ligaments and loosening joints, making joints painful and less stable. This can result in additional joint pain from attempting to lift heavy objects, as well as unhealthy pressure on your lower back. Even in the lifting of lighter objects, it is important to observe safe lifting technique to prevent potential injury; crouch down with a straight back, grip carefully, and lift straight up using the legs in order not to strain your spine.