Do's and Don'ts

Infections

Infections can range from mild colds to life-threatening illnesses. If you think you have been exposed to an infection, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Vaccinations can prevent some infections, particularly childhood illnesses like mumps or rubella. Gynecological and other infections vary in terms of whether they must be treated immediately to avoid further infection, sepsis, or harm to your fetus, or whether treatment needs to wait until after gestation.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
This is an example of a virus most women have been exposed to, but is usually only a risk to the baby if a mother is first exposed and sick during pregnancy. There is no treatment for this virus and if transmitted to a baby during pregnancy, can cause mental retardation or jaundice. Good hygiene is your best defense against CMV (hand washing etc)

Hepatitis and Lyme disease
These are other types of infections against which caution and preventive measures can usually defend. For hepatitis prevention, avoid contact with blood or body fluids from others; avoid sexual intimacy with more than 1 regular partner.

Deer ticks spread Lyme disease, typically during the spring when deer ticks are in the nymph stage (very tiny). When on an outing, dress with long sleeves and long pants tucked inside your socks. Pull long hair back in a braid or pony tail/ or under a hat. A tick repellant solution can be applied to your clothing (much preferred over directly applying on your skin). Products with less that 10% DEET, as an active ingredient, are considered safe for children and adults. Be sure to examine your skin and hair carefully after being in the woods/meadow/tall grass. Consult your physician if you have concerns.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
This can pose risks to both you and your baby if not treated. Generally, UTI’s can be detected and treated easily, and testing should be done periodically as sometimes infections have few symptoms and can spread to the kidneys. As a precaution, encourage increased fluids and good perineal hygiene. Always wipe from the front to the back after using the bathroom. It is also a good idea to wash the genital area and empty your bladder before and after sexual activity – this reduce the chance of bacteria being introduced into the short female urethra.

Toxoplasmosis
Don’t handle cat litter as you risk toxoplasmosis, a parasite spread by mammals such as cats. This is especially dangerous when a mother is first infected during pregnancy. Wearing gloves while gardening or washing thoroughly with soap after handling meat and poultry may also help avoid toxoplasmosis. Additionally, NEVER eat raw or undercooked meat – this is another way of contracting this disease.