Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii. The infection is usually asymptomatic in healthy individuals but can cause severe symptoms in people with weakened immune systems.

Pregnant women, particularly those who are infected for the first time during pregnancy, can transmit the parasite to their unborn child, causing a range of health problems. In this article, we discuss the risks of toxoplasmosis during pregnancy and how to prevent and manage the infection.

How Does Toxoplasmosis Spread?

Toxoplasmosis is primarily spread through the ingestion of undercooked or contaminated meat or through contact with cat feces. The parasite can also be transmitted through contaminated soil, water, or food.

Pregnant women who become infected with toxoplasmosis can pass the parasite on to their unborn baby through the placenta.

What Are the Risks of Toxoplasmosis During Pregnancy?

The risk of transmitting toxoplasmosis to the unborn baby is highest if the mother becomes infected for the first time during pregnancy.

In such cases, the infected mother can transmit the parasite to the fetus through the placenta, potentially causing severe health problems. Some of the risks associated with congenital toxoplasmosis include:.

Brain damage
Blindness
Hearing loss
Liver damage
Enlarged spleen
Jaundice
Seizures

The severity of the symptoms depends on the gestational age at which the mother becomes infected with the parasite.

The risk of congenital toxoplasmosis is highest during the first trimester of pregnancy, but the severity of the symptoms is greatest in the third trimester.

How Can You Prevent Toxoplasmosis During Pregnancy?

The best way to prevent toxoplasmosis during pregnancy is to practice good hygiene and food safety habits. These include:.

Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling raw meat, changing litter boxes, or working in the garden
Avoiding undercooked or raw meat, particularly beef, pork, or lamb
Washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them
Avoiding contact with cat feces, either by having someone else change the litter box or by wearing gloves when cleaning it
Avoiding drinking untreated water or eating unwashed vegetables from areas where the water supply may be contaminated

Pregnant women who are at high risk of toxoplasmosis, such as those who work with soil or animals, may need to take additional precautions to protect themselves and their unborn child.

They should consult their healthcare provider to determine the appropriate precautions to take.

How Is Toxoplasmosis Diagnosed and Treated During Pregnancy?

Toxoplasmosis can be diagnosed with a blood test that detects antibodies to the parasite. If the test is positive, further tests may be done to determine the extent of the infection and the potential risk to the unborn baby.

If the infection is detected early in pregnancy, treatment with antibiotics may be recommended to reduce the risk of transmission to the unborn baby.

However, these medications may not be effective in all cases, and they may have side effects that can harm the developing fetus.

If the infection is severe or if the baby has already been affected, more intensive treatment may be required.

This may involve a combination of medications, as well as other supportive measures such as monitoring the baby’s health and providing supportive care after birth.

Conclusion

Toxoplasmosis is a serious infection that can have long-term health consequences for an unborn baby. Pregnant women should take precautions to avoid exposure to the parasite and seek medical attention if they suspect they have been infected.

By staying informed and taking steps to protect themselves and their unborn child, women can reduce the risks of toxoplasmosis and ensure a healthy pregnancy.