7 Ways Pregnant Women Affect Babies

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Get your 'D'

Women thinking about getting pregnant may want to have their vitamin D levels tested, according to one recent study.

There's growing evidence that low levels of the "sunshine vitamin" during pregnancy may lead to health problems for mother and child, the researchers at the University of Calgary said. The review of more than 30 studies linked low levels of vitamin D to an increased risk of gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia and lower birth weight

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Nuke your deli meats

Roughly 1,600 Americans yearly suffer from severe cases of listeriosis, a food born illness caused by the bacteria Listeria. About one in six cases occur during pregnancy, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Though the risk of getting listeriosis during pregnancy may be small, the effects can be grave. A Listeria infection can lead to premature delivery, infection in the infant and even stillbirth

Processed meats, such as hot dogs, deli slices and smoked salmon can become contaminated with Listeria before they are packaged. "The unfortunate thing about Listeria is that it can be anywhere," said Dr. Melissa Goist, an OB-GYN at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. She recommended washing all fruits and vegetables and heating all processed meats to at least 150 degrees in the microwave before eating.

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Guard against air pollution

Breathing outdoor air pollution caused by traffic, industry and even dust during pregnancy may slightly increase the risk that a baby will be born at a lower birth weight, according to a large, international study published earlier this year.

While women can't always change where they live or work, avoiding rush hour traffic as well as idling trucks, buses and cars may help.

One study published last year found that increasing the intake of fruits and veggies during pregnancy may help protect against the effects of air pollution.