Precautions to Take to Prevent Infection During a Pregnancy

Several illnesses can harm you and your growing fetus before, during, and after pregnancy. These can result in severe sickness, birth deformities, and permanent impairments, including hearing loss or academic difficulties. Here are 5 suggestions for avoiding infections both before and during pregnancy:

Avoid raw (unpasteurized) milk and the products produced with it.

Soft cheeses like feta, brie, and queso fresco shouldn’t be consumed unless they are marked as pasteurized on the label. Products that haven’t been pasteurized may contain dangerous microorganisms.

Do not handle or replace soiled cat litter.

Have somebody else complete it. If it’s necessary for you to replace the cat litter yourself, wash your hands afterward and put on gloves. A dangerous parasite might be present in dirty cat litter.

Avoid contact with wild or pet rats, as well as their droppings.

Have a pest control specialist remove pests from your house or surrounding it. Have someone else look after your pet rodents, such as a guinea pig or hamster, until your baby is born.

Be tested for STDs, such as HIV and hepatitis B, and take precautions to avoid contracting them.

Some persons with STDs, hepatitis B, or HIV do not experience symptoms of illness. It’s crucial to know whether you suffer from one of these conditions. If you do, discuss ways to lower your baby’s likelihood of getting sick with your healthcare practitioner.

Discuss group B strep with your doctor.

One in four women have this kind of bacteria but are otherwise healthy. If you have this kind of bacterium, a simple swab test near the end of pregnancy will reveal it. See your doctor about safeguarding your unborn child throughout childbirth if you have group B strep.