How To Prevent Yourself from Infections During Pregnancy?
When a mother gets an infection during her pregnancy, she is also at risk of passing the infection along to her baby. Infections during pregnancy can cause serious illness to you and your baby. But, you can prevent yourself from infections during pregnancy. If you are wondering how you can prevent yourself from infections during pregnancy then we are here to tell you some of the important points that you should keep in mind for keeping yourself safe from infections during pregnancy.
- Avoid Unpasteurized Milk
It is necessary to avoid unpasteurized milk and foods made from it. Avoid soft cheese like queso fresco, brie, and other foods. Unpasteurized milk can be contaminated with bacteria and can cause serious health issues. Not only this, you may face food poisoning due to unpasteurized milk and you can be at risk of getting a Listeria infection while you are pregnant which can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth. That’s why try not to consume it when you are pregnant.
- Maintain Good Hygiene
You should wash your hands frequently because it is one of the best ways to remove germs and prevent infections. You can also use sanitizer when you are outside your home. If you have not yet had a vaccine before pregnancy, stay away from people who are sick and are around you. Practicing good hygiene practices during pregnancy prevents you from infections. Make sure that you take your vaccines on time, these vaccines not only protect the mother but also provide immunity to your baby.
- Get Tested for Sexually Transmitted Infections
As per the studies, some people have STIs but they don’t feel sick or any other symptoms. It is necessary to know if you have an STI when you are pregnant because this can affect your baby adversely. If you do test positive talk to the gynaecologist in Lucknow to protect your baby.
- Protect Yourself from Zika Virus
Zika virus is spread from one person to another through the bite of an infected mosquito. Use insect-repellant creams, mosquito nets at your homes, and mosquito repellant sprays to protect yourself from the Zika virus. Keep flower pots, and your pet dishes aside, standing water pots away because mosquito lays eggs in these items.
- Protect Yourself from Toxoplasmosis
Avoid touching cat litter because it contains a parasite called toxoplasma which can cause you a serious infection during pregnancy. Babies born to mothers who develop toxoplasmosis during pregnancy, or just before becoming pregnant, can develop symptoms such as mental disability, blindness, eye damage, hearing loss, or even brain damage. To protect yourself from toxoplasmosis you should wear disposable gloves and wash your hands frequently, do not eat raw, undercooked meat, oysters, or other foods, avoid contact with stray cats, and avoid cleaning cat litter.
- Protect Yourself from Bacteria Group B Strep
A group B infection is common during pregnancy and if babies are born to mothers with Group B Strep they may face infection, pneumonia, and meningitis. This is the infection of amniotic fluid and the placenta. It can also cause a postpartum infection and can lead to preterm labor. You should practice good hygiene practices, stay hydrated, maintain a balanced diet, and boost your immune system by consuming vitamins and supplements advised by your gynecologist.
- Stay Away from Pets, Rodents, and Dropping During Pregnancy
If you are pregnant or planning to conceive a baby then you should avoid contact with pets, rodents, and dropping. Some rodents might carry a harmful virus called lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus that can impact your and your baby’s health. Many people think that pets bring joy and happiness if they are around pregnant women but make sure your pet is up-to-date with vaccinations and don’t keep your pets too close to pregnant women because it can cause infections.
Also Read – 7 Common Health Issues Which Causes Infertility in Women
- Cook Meat Properly Before Consuming
Properly cooking meat kills most food poisoning bacteria. Do not eat hot dogs, luncheon meats, or deli meats unless they are cooked properly or reheated until steaming hot. These undercooked meats and processed meats might contain harmful bacteria and to prevent yourself from these you should remember to cook them.
- Avoid sharing your Personal Items
Avoid sharing personal items, such as toothbrushes, food, towels, razors, and drinks with a sick person because it increases the chances of infection during pregnancy.
- Take Recommended Vitamins and Supplements
You should eat the recommended vitamins and supplements that promote the growth of your baby. Specific vitamins help strengthen your body’s immune system and enhance your body’s cells to fight against infections.
Conclusion
You can prevent yourself and your baby from infections by incorporating a few habits in your lifestyle during pregnancy. Infertile women can take guidance from the Fertility specialist in Lucknow to enhance their chances of successful pregnancy. The best way to protect yourself and your baby against sicknesses is to consult your gynecologist for advice.