Take a break from cell phones during pregnancy

We often forget that pregnancy is wellness and not an illness. Though it comes as a blessing to all expecting couples, it brings along a set of concerns and problems.

Talking about one such issue during that time, Dr N S Kanimozhi, Gynecologist and Obstetrician, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Chennai reveals that radiations from mobile phones, computers, and wireless routers are likely to have an impact on the growing fetus.

"In today's technology-driven world, you rely on your cell phone to stay in touch with friends and family, get your work done and keep track of what's going on around you. Wireless Internet connections, laptops and tablets are as ubiquitous as phones. While technology comes as a boon it is important to note that cell phones and other wireless devices emit radio waves," Kanimozhi clarifies.

That is why expecting mothers are recommended to have limited exposure to radiation during this phase.

With so much of technology available around, expecting mothers need to understand that "radiation is a kind of energy". Most of the expecting mothers are encouraged to not be exposed to radiation during this important phase. Lesser the exposure to radiation lower will be the risk of birth defects in the newborn, the Gynecologist and Obstetrician reveals.

"A birth defect is a health condition that a baby has at birth. Birth defects change the shape or function of one or more parts of the body. They can cause problems in overall health, in how the body develops, or in how the body works. It is important to note that fetuses are particularly sensitive to radiation during their early development, between weeks 2 and 18 of pregnancy," she adds.

Globally, researchers have found that mobile phones emit radio waves a type of non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation which is not likely to affect the health of the mother or of the growing fetus. The possibility of severe health effects depends on the gestational age of the fetus at the time of exposure and the amount of radiation it is exposed to. Unborn babies are less sensitive during some stages of pregnancy than others.

Agreeing to her views, Dr Nupur Gupta, Director, Obstetrics, and Gynaecology, Fortis Gurugram states, the use of electronic gadgets like a cellular phone or laptop is inevitable today. We cannot completely abandon the devices, but spreading information about the harmful effects of these radiation on children and pregnant women is necessary.

Effects of mobile phones on pregnant women

Excessive and increased use of mobiles for a long term can trigger insomnia which leads to reduced bone density and brain activity as well. This is detrimental to fetal brain development and may result in behavioral issues like hyperactivity.

Besides, mothers spending a lot of time on the mobile phone might result in neglection, leading to behavioural problem in the kid.

Higher rate of exposure to radiation during pregnancy can also change brain activity of the pregnant women causing fatigue, anxiety, reduced memory and sleep disturbance.

Constant and continued exposure to radio waves during pregnancy can influence and interfere with cellular receptors of the human body and may initiate cancer.

Pregnant women should consult their physicians if they have any concern about radiation exposure to their fetus.

Smart phones are truly an addiction these days. It might be difficult to stay away from it, but is extremely necessary to ensure that the baby as well mother are healthy.

So, if you are an expecting mother, take a break from your cell phones and enjoy every moment of this beautiful phase.