Pregnancy Infections to Avoid

Your main concern when you are pregnant is to keep both you and your baby safe and healthy, which is why it can be scary if you do fall ill.

Fortunately, common ailments such as a cold won’t harm the baby. However, there are some pregnancy infections that can be more serious and that you need to be aware of to try and avoid any complications during pregnancy.

Here are some pregnancy infections to look out for...

Chickenpox:

If you have had chickenpox you will be immune, however, if you are pregnant and you haven’t had it, or are unsure, it is best to steer clear of anyone who is infected. If you think you might have been put at risk, get medical advice immediately.

Rubella:

Most women are immunised against rubella (German measles) however, if you do come into contact with it and you are not immune, contact your GP straight away who can carry out a blood test to see if you have been infected.

HIV and AIDS:

The HIV virus (which causes AIDS) can be transmitted to the fetus through the placenta during pregnancy or at the birth, and can also be passed on through breastfeeding. It is routine to be offered a confidential HIV test to avoid complications during pregnancy.

Hepatitis B and C:

Hepatitis B affects the liver and can be passed onto your baby at birth. Many people show no symptoms and don’t even know they are a carrier, however, all pregnant women are offered a blood test. If you are pregnant and have the virus, your baby can be given a hepatitis B vaccine at birth. Hepatitis C also affects the liver and is transmitted by direct contact with infected blood and is one of the pregnancy infections that can be passed on to baby, although the risks are much lower.

Genital herpes:

Herpes can be passed on to your baby but if you develop an infection in early pregnancy, your body has time to develop antibodies which will pass to your unborn baby. Sadly, a few women will miscarry. If contracted for the first time in late pregnancy, there is no time to build antibodies so women may be advised to have a caesarean section to reduce the risk of transmission. On-going herpes is controlled with an antiviral medicine called acyclovir in the final stages of pregnancy.

Toxoplasmosis:

This is caught through contact with cat faeces, raw or undercooked meat and unpasteurised goat’s milk or cheese and can damage your baby so it is crucial to avoid all of the above when pregnant. Most of us have the infection some stage before pregnancy so will be immune.

Parvovirus B19 (slapped cheek disease):

This is common in children, with symptoms appearing as a red rash on the face. While 60% of women are immune, it is highly infectious and can be harmful to the baby. However, in most cases the baby is not affected by the mother becoming infected.