While technology has proved to be a boon in every aspect of our lives, it also has the potential to swiftly work against us, when not handled appropriately. This is especially true, in the case of the use of mobile phones during pregnancy.
Pregnancy is a beautiful phase for expectant mothers, and while it comes as a blessing, it also poses its own set of concerns. Besides dietary restrictions, pregnant women need to be aware of the safety measures and guidelines for use of mobile phones to ensure a healthy and smooth pregnancy.
What are the negative effects of technology for pregnant women?
Today, technology has become an integral part of our day-to-day lives, and we rely on cell phones not just to be in touch with our loved ones, but also to keep abreast of what’s happening around us. But it is important to recognize the negative effects of cell phones and other wireless devices. These devices emit radio waves that are likely to have an impact on the growing fetus.
Pregnant women are recommended to limit exposure to radiation during the crucial nine months to lower the risk of birth defects in the newborn. While exposure to some amount of radiation is acceptable, greater amounts can harm the developing fetus during their early development, especially between 2 and 18 weeks of pregnancy.
The damage caused depends on the amount of radiation and the gestational age of the fetus at the time of exposure, as unborn babies are less sensitive during some stages of pregnancy than others.
Can mobile phones cause issues in pregnancy?
Pregnancy is an important phase for every woman, and it is vital to exercise caution to ensure a healthy baby. Excessive use of mobile phones over a long period can trigger insomnia, which results in reduced bone density and brain activity. This is likely to be harmful to the development of the fetal brain, and result in behavioural issues like hyperactivity.
Studies worldwide have proposed that extensive use of mobile phones causes lengthy exposure to mobile radiation, which is likely to alter gene sequence in mitochondria for pregnant women and this may further travel to the baby. Eventually, this can impact their DNA and lead to the development of degenerative illness in the child.
Moreover, increased exposure to radiation in pregnant women can also have an effect on brain activity, causing fatigue, anxiety, and sleep disturbance, besides reduced memory. Further, consistent and increased exposure to harmful radio waves during pregnancy can interfere with receptors of the human body and may initiate an increasing risk of cancer.
The last word
Pregnancy is an important part of a woman’s life, which is why it is important to take proper care to ensure healthy babies. Expectant mothers are therefore advised to control the use of mobile technology during their pregnancy.
