As an expectant mother, you are probably aware of the many precautions you need to take to keep your baby safe and healthy. One illness that may not be on your radar is toxoplasmosis.

This condition is caused by a parasite, and it can be harmful to your growing baby if you contract it during pregnancy. Here is what you need to know about toxoplasmosis and how to prevent it.

What is Toxoplasmosis?

Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by the Toxoplasma gondii parasite. This organism is commonly found in soil, water, and even on raw meat.

It can also be present in the feces of infected cats, which is why pregnant women are often advised to avoid cleaning litter boxes. If a pregnant woman contracts toxoplasmosis, it can cause serious health problems for her unborn baby. The parasite can cross the placenta and infect the fetus, leading to birth defects or even miscarriage.

Symptoms of Toxoplasmosis

In many cases, toxoplasmosis causes no symptoms at all. If symptoms do appear, they may include:.

Fever
Headache
Muscle aches
Sore throat
Swollen lymph nodes

These symptoms may be mild and flu-like, and they may go away on their own without treatment. In some cases, however, the infection can cause damage to the eyes, brain, or other organs.

Preventing Toxoplasmosis

The good news is that there are several steps you can take to prevent toxoplasmosis during pregnancy:.

Avoid handling cat litter. If you must do so, wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
Cook meat thoroughly. Make sure all meat is cooked to an internal temperature of at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly. Rinse all produce under running water to wash away any dirt or debris that may contain the parasite.
Avoid drinking unpasteurized milk. Make sure all dairy products are pasteurized before you consume them.
Wear gloves while gardening. Always wear gloves while working with soil or gardening, and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.

By following these simple steps, you can greatly reduce your risk of contracting toxoplasmosis during pregnancy.

Testing for Toxoplasmosis

If you are concerned that you may have contracted toxoplasmosis, your doctor can order a blood test to check for antibodies to the parasite. This test can determine whether you have been exposed to the parasite at any point in your life.

If you have never been exposed, you may be at greater risk of contracting the infection during pregnancy.

If you test positive for toxoplasmosis, your doctor may order additional tests to determine whether the fetus has been infected. These tests may include an ultrasound or amniocentesis to look for signs of fetal infection.

Treatment for Toxoplasmosis

If you do contract toxoplasmosis during pregnancy, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. These drugs can reduce the chance of the parasite crossing the placenta and infecting the fetus.

Depending on the severity of the infection, your doctor may also recommend close monitoring of the baby’s health through ultrasounds or other tests.

Conclusion

Toxoplasmosis is a serious condition that can have severe consequences for an unborn baby. However, by taking simple precautions, you can greatly reduce your risk of contracting the infection.

Talk to your doctor about how to protect yourself and your unborn baby from toxoplasmosis, and seek medical attention right away if you suspect you may have been infected.