Expecting mothers face a wide range of challenges during their pregnancy. One of the most important issues is the risk of contracting harmful infections, which can have serious effects on both the mother and the unborn child.

One such infection is toxoplasmosis.

What is Toxoplasmosis?

Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection caused by the Toxoplasma gondii parasite. This parasite is commonly found in cat feces, contaminated soil, and raw or undercooked meat.

The infection can spread to humans through direct contact with infected animals, consuming contaminated food and water, or touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth or face.

How Common is Toxoplasmosis?

Toxoplasmosis is a common infection that affects millions of people worldwide. In most cases, the infection causes mild flu-like symptoms or no symptoms at all. However, the infection can be dangerous for pregnant women.

What are the Risks for Expecting Mothers?

For expecting mothers, the risks of toxoplasmosis include miscarriage, stillbirth, and the transmission of the infection to the fetus. Infection during early pregnancy may cause severe birth defects and developmental problems in the newborn.

How to Prevent Toxoplasmosis?

Prevention is essential for expecting mothers to avoid toxoplasmosis. Here are some precautions that expecting mothers should take:.

1. Wash Hands Frequently

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food, playing with pets, and gardening. Use hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available.

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2. Avoid Cat Litter Boxes

Avoid changing cat litter boxes in case of infection as the parasite can spread through cat feces. If changing litter boxes is necessary, use gloves and wash hands thoroughly afterward.

3. Consume Precautionary Meat and Eggs

Ensure that all meat products are cooked thoroughly and cut meat dishes with different tools than the ones used for the uncooked meat. Avoid consuming raw or undercooked eggs, and use pasteurized milk and cheese products.

4. Wear Gloves While Gardening

Wear gloves while gardening as the soil can be contaminated with feces from infected animals.

5. Avoid Contaminated Soil

Avoid working with or playing in the soil that could be contaminated with the Toxoplasma parasite. If soil is encountered, wash hands thoroughly after handling it.

How to Test for Toxoplasmosis?

A toxoplasmosis test blood sample is a way to test for past exposure to the infection. IgG antibodies can determine the infection’s presence or absence through the blood sample.

Conclusion

Toxoplasmosis is a serious infection that can have severe consequences for expecting mothers and their unborn children. Taking precautions can help prevent infection. It’s essential to know what steps to take, especially when you’re pregnant.

If you believe that you have contracted the infection, contact your doctor right away.