• High levels of non-ionizing radiation
have been linked to genetic damage, miscarriage
and birth defects but there is no concrete proof
to this. The truth is the tested levels have been
extremely high, no where close to what we are
exposed to normally.
• Another theory suggests that electromagnetic
fields are energy waves emitted from most electrical
gadgets. The level of energy waves which are measured
in milligauss or mG determine whether a machine
is safe for use during pregnancy. The study concluded
that a mere 15-20 mGs can harm a pregnancy. Standing
next to a running microwave for instance exposes
you to between 100-300 mGs! (And that is why standing
some feet away from a running microwave makes
a tremendous difference is therefore advisable).
Nevertheless to give
yourself some peace of mind and keep your baby
out of possible harm's way, you can perhaps:
• Sit at least 5 feet away from the TV set
when watching TV
• Stand some feet away at least 3 to the
side when the microwave is running. Leaky microwaves
can be a problem. Test your microwave by putting
a paper towel in the door and shut it. Try pulling
out the towel and if you manage to do it, the
seals need to be replaced.
• Limit the amount of time you spend at
the copier although there are no evidence suggesting
it is harmful
• Invest in an ultra thin flat panel monitor
or a notebook computer. There are no studies showing
a link between working on a computer all day and
birth defects but just so you know whatever radiation
that is emitted comes from the rear of the computer.
Avoid sitting too close to the back of a computer
screen e.g. you may want to consider moving your
workstation if you are too close to the rear of
your colleague's screen.
• Use your cell phones only when necessary
during pregnancy e.g. attend to important unavoidable
calls. The use of cell phones causing radiation
is controversial. Any risk at all is limited to
the user and there is no evidence suggesting a
link to miscarriage or birth defects. According
to experts the non-ionizing rays from cell phones
is very small and therefore not harmful to the
fetus. Having said that never carry your hand
phone near your stomach especially when it is
on and limit use.
• Although there are no clear-cut risks
but based on research many experts advise to avoid
or limit the use of electric blankets and heating
pads close to or on your body. Resort to alternatives
as these heating devices can raise body temperature
excessively and that in itself can be harmful.
When using a heating pad wrap it in towel and
limit the application to about 15 minutes.
• Pregnant women are most vulnerable to
radiation exposure or electromagnetic radiation
during their first 10 weeks of pregnancy. And
according to one finding women at greatest risk
to such exposure are those with a history of pregnancy
loss or fertility issues.
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