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Most women who recount their pregnancies focus on the joy of feeling life grow inside their bodies. The miracle of human reproduction is a wonder to behold, however it takes some work to get the best result. While there are plenty of things a woman can do pregnant, there are certain necessary precautions she should take.

Steer Clear of Smoking
It is critical you stay far away from cigarettes and secondhand smoke once you become pregnant. Smoking, or exposure to secondhand smoke, can result in a long list of complications that include, but are not limited to: premature birth, low birth rate, miscarriage, and even SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). Please note, an intended parent's IVF Clinic will require the surrogate to undergo a blood test, which will detect secondhand smoke.

Avoid Cleaning the Cat Litter
Pregnant women should avoid cleaning or changing the litter box. Cats can carry a parasite called toxoplasmosis. This parasite is transmitted through their feces and can cause birth defects.

Avoid Certain Foods
Any pregnant woman or woman contemplating pregnancy should search a thorough list of foods that can be harmful to the fetus. Some foods to avoid include: raw or undercooked meat, raw or undercooked eggs, hot dogs, sandwich meat (cold cuts), raw cookie dough, unpasteurized cheeses, and sprouts.

Monitor Your Daily Caffeine Intake
Caffeine intake should be avoided or significantly reduced during pregnancy. While coffee is one source of caffeine, other culprits to monitor include: soda, energy drinks, tea, some over the counter drugs and, unfortunately, chocolate. Research on the harmful effects of caffeine on a fetus is inconclusive. What is known is that caffeine is a stimulant that impacts the body: acting as a diuretic, increasing the heart rate, and elevating blood pressure.

Do Not Drink Alcohol
Alcoholic beverages should not be consumed while pregnant. Consuming alcohol during pregnancy can result in premature birth, low birth weight, and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.

Do Not Handle Reptiles
Though not a common pet, reptiles do find their way into the hearts and homes of some. During pregnancy, a woman should not handle a reptile. Reptiles can pass salmonella and other bacteria harmful to the fetus.

Reduce Exposure to Harsh Chemicals
It is easy to accept the variety of chemicals we are exposed to on a daily basis. Exposure to common household cleaners, fresh wet paint on office walls and pest repellants are not uncommon, to some degree, each day. While carrying a child a surrogate should take caution to avoid harsh chemicals.

Avoid Hot Tubs, Saunas, and Long Hot Showers
While a long hot soak might sound tempting it should be avoided during pregnancy. Hot water can raise a woman's body temperature and be harmful to the developing fetus.

There is Still Plenty to Enjoy
There are still plenty of things you can do, eat and drink you just might need to think a bit outside the box to discover new or altered pleasures. If you're cringing while reading this or any list of pregnancy no-no's, hold dear the fact that these restrictions cease after nine months. You can do it! The pay off in that sweet, healthy, happy baby will make it all worthwhile.