Pregnancy doesn't mean you need to change the way you usually celebrate Diwali, but it does mean you need to take a few extra precautions.  Keep a track of your appointments Don’t miss any antenatal appointments even if there may be other priorities during the festive time. Your doctor will be able to advise you on what's safe for your stage of pregnancy. She may suggest additional precautions if you're carrying twins or more or have any complications. Also speak to your doctor if you suffer from any pre-existing health conditions that might get aggravated at this time of the year such as respiratory conditions, heart disease or asthma.  Watch out for pollution During pregnancy a woman's oxygen-carrying capacity is reduced, so it's important to stay in well ventilated areas away from air pollution. Pollution levels rise considerably during Diwali. Seek medical help if you feel:

Protect yourself from burns and injuries 

Some people enjoy rowdy play and throw crackers or point rockets towards crowds which may result in serious burns or injuries. Some also like to burst cluster bombs (ladis), that go off in batches of 100, 1000 or even above 10,000 explosions at a go. The sound levels that such fireworks make can cause tinnitus (ringing in the ears), which can be very annoying depending on how long it lasts. Speak to your doctor if you do get tinnitus so he can tell you what steps to take to feel better.  

Look out for any allergy triggers 

Almost every home is decorated with flowers, floral garlands or with petals floating in water bowls. Some flowers can trigger allergies such as hayfever or asthma. If you suffer from asthma it would be useful to carry your inhaler with you at all times. To help reduce exposure to allergens, leave floral garlands or flowers outside until the last possible moment. Spray them with water before bringing them indoors. This will help to settle any dust, pollen or mould spores that trigger the allergies.  

Choose decorations with care 

There are many varieties of diyas to choose from, but pick those with a sturdy base. Where you place diyas and candles is also important to avoid any accidental fires. Keep them away from any flammable areas such as furniture, drapes, rugs, bedding, newspapers or wooden objects. And if you are at the stage where your baby bump is so big you don't see your feet, make sure you do not get close to where the diyas are kept. The clothes that hang over your bump can get close to a flame without you even realising it. Be extra cautious if you have babies and toddlers around the house. Read more on how to prevent burns.  

And... be prepared 

You may never have to use them but always keep the following handy: