What infections should be worry about in pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a very happy and special time. A baby is growing inside the mother, and the mother wants to stay healthy. But during this time, some infections can be harmful. These infections can affect both the mother and the baby.

That is why it is very important to know what infections to worry about during pregnancy. In this article, we will talk about the most common infections in pregnancy, how to know if you have them, and how to stay safe.

Why Infections Are Dangerous During Pregnancy?

Infections are caused by germs like bacteria, viruses, and parasites. During pregnancy, the body is busy growing the baby, so it can be easier for the mother to get sick. Some infections can reach the baby through the placenta and cause problems like:

• Premature birth (baby is born early)
• Low birth weight
• Birth defects
• Miscarriage (baby stops growing)
• Problems in the baby's brain or body

So, mothers need to be very careful and take good care of themselves.

Common Infections to Worry About in Pregnancy

Let us look at some infections that are common and risky during pregnancy:

1. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common during pregnancy and can cause pain, burning while urinating, fever, and back pain. If untreated, they can lead to kidney infections and early labor. Drinking water, maintaining hygiene, and consulting a doctor can help prevent UTIs.

• What it is: Infection in the bladder or urine.
• Signs: Pain when peeing, burning feeling, fever, and back pain.
• Risk: Can go to the kidneys and cause early labour.
• Prevention: Drink water, keep clean, and go to the doctor if it hurts to pee.

2. Toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by a parasite found in raw meat and cat poo. It may not show signs in the mother, but it can harm the baby’s brain and eyes. Prevent it by washing hands, cooking meat well, and avoiding cat litter.

• What it is: Caused by a parasite found in raw meat and cat poo.
• Signs: May not show signs, but can hurt the baby.
• Risk: Can cause brain and eye problems in the baby.
• Prevention: Wash hands, cook meat well, and avoid cat litter.

3. Group B Streptococcus (GBS)

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a bacterium that lives in the body and can pass to the baby during birth. It usually shows no signs in the mother but can make the baby very sick. Doctors test for it and give medicine during delivery if needed.

• What it is: A bacterium in the body that can be passed to the baby.
• Signs: Usually no signs in the mother.
• Risk: Can make the baby very sick after birth.
• Prevention: The Doctor will check before birth. If needed, you will get medicine during delivery.

4. Rubella (German Measles)

Rubella (German Measles) is a viral infection that causes rash, fever, and sore throat. It can harm the baby by causing hearing problems, heart defects, or brain issues. To prevent it, take the rubella vaccine before getting pregnant.

• What it is: A viral infection.
• Signs: Rash, fever, sore throat.
• Risk: Can cause hearing problems or heart defects in the baby.
• Prevention: Take the rubella vaccine before pregnancy.

5. Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a virus that spreads through saliva or close contact. It can cause fever, tiredness, and body aches. In pregnancy, it may lead to hearing loss or brain problems in the baby. Prevent it by washing hands often and not sharing food or cups.

• What it is: A virus that spreads by saliva or contact.
• Signs: Fever, tiredness, body aches.
• Risk: Can cause hearing loss or brain problems in the baby.
• Prevention: Wash hands often, avoid sharing food and cups.

6. Listeriosis

Listeriosis is an infection caused by eating unpasteurized milk, soft cheese, or raw meats. It can lead to fever, body pain, and diarrhea. During pregnancy, it may cause miscarriage or stillbirth. Prevent it by eating only pasteurized dairy and avoiding raw or cold meats.

• What it is: Infection from eating unpasteurized milk or soft cheese.
• Signs: Fever, body pain, diarrhea.
• Risk: Can cause miscarriage or stillbirth.
• Prevention: Eat only pasteurized dairy, and avoid raw or cold meats.

7. Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a virus that harms the liver. Signs include yellow skin, tiredness, and dark urine. It can pass to the baby during birth. To prevent it, mothers should get tested, and the baby should receive a vaccine right after birth.

• What it is: A virus that affects the liver.
• Signs: Yellow skin, tiredness, dark pee.
• Risk: Can be passed to the baby during birth.
• Prevention: Get tested. Baby gets a vaccine after birth.

8. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that weakens the immune system. It may not show signs early, but it can be passed to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Taking proper medicine during pregnancy and treating the baby after birth helps prevent infection.

• What it is: A Virus that weakens the immune system.
• Signs: May not show signs early.
• Risk: Can be passed to the baby.
• Prevention: Take medicine during pregnancy. Baby gets tested and treated after birth.

9. Zika Virus

Zika Virus is a virus spread by mosquito bites. It can cause fever, rash, and red eyes. In pregnancy, it may lead to microcephaly (small head and brain problems) in the baby. Prevent it by avoiding mosquito areas and using mosquito repellent.

• What it is: Spread by a mosquito bite.
• Signs: Fever, rash, red eyes.
• Risk: Can cause a small head in the baby (microcephaly).
• Prevention: Stay away from mosquito areas, and use repellent.

10. COVID-19

COVID-19 is a viral infection spread through the air. It can cause cough, fever, and breathing problems. Pregnant women are at risk of getting very sick from it. To prevent COVID-19, wear a mask, wash your hands often, avoid crowds, and get vaccinated.

• What it is: Viral infection spread by air.
• Signs: Cough, fever, breathing problems.
• Risk: Can make the mother very sick.
• Prevention: Wear a mask, wash hands, avoid crowds, and take vaccine.

Read Also:- How Smoking and Alcohol Affect Fertility in Men and Women

How to Prevent Infections During Pregnancy?

Here are easy steps to stay safe:

• Wash your hands with soap often.
• Avoid eating raw or uncooked food.
• Drink clean and safe water.
• Do not clean cat litter.
• Stay away from sick people.
• Take all vaccines on time.
• Go for regular doctor check-ups.

FAQs About Infections in Pregnancy

Q1. Can infections harm my baby in the womb?
Yes, some infections can pass to the baby and cause serious problems.

Q2. Can I take medicine if I get sick during pregnancy?
Yes, but only take the medicine your doctor gives you. Some medicines are not safe in pregnancy.

Q3. How do I know if I have an infection?
You may feel pain, fever, or something different. Always tell your doctor if you feel unwell.

Q4. Are all infections dangerous during pregnancy?
No, but some are. Your doctor will help you understand which ones are risky.

Q5. Is it safe to take vaccines during pregnancy?
Some vaccines are safe and important, like the flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Ask your doctor.

Conclusion

Now you know what infections you should be worried about in pregnancy. It is important to take care of your health and visit your doctor regularly. Simple things like washing hands, eating clean food, and taking vaccines can help a lot. Always tell your doctor if you feel sick or notice anything different.