You have just found out you are pregnant, and you are overwhelmed with excitement. There are so many things to do and plan for, but first things first. That means schedule your first prenatal visit with Atlanta Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates!
Pregnancy is a joyful time for moms-to-be, but as you decorate the nursery and plan for the baby’s arrival, don’t forget to take precautions to prevent prenatal infections. They can be dangerous for both mother and baby.
This may sound simple, but practicing good hygiene will go a long way in keeping both you and baby free from troublesome infections. Be especially meticulous if you care for other children in your family, or if they attend daycare. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after changing diapers.
Transmission of a virus knowns as Cytomegalovirus or CMV occurs through saliva and urine from younger children to the pregnant mom. In turn the infected mom can pass the virus on to her unborn child which increases the risk of hearing or vision problems as well as cognitive disabilities.
Bacterial infections arise when foods are ill prepared, not washed properly or contain a serious bacteria.
Listeria is a harmful bacteria found in certain contaminated dairy foods, fruits, and meats. A pregnant woman who contracts this bacteria can pass it on to her child leading to a stillborn birth, miscarriages, and preterm labor. Hispanic women are 24 times more likely to contract Listeriosis due to certain consumed dairy products.
There are a few steps you can take to help protect you and your baby:
If symptoms like fever, muscle fatigue, and aches occur, contact your doctor immediately.
25% of women carry this bacteria which can cause serious illness or death. A simple test will alert the doctor and specific preparations will be made for an antiboiotic during labor and birth.
Don’t empty or handle cat litter to avoid becoming infected with Toxoplasmosis caused by a parasite. It can also be found in soil so avoid gardening and handling soil during pregnancy.
This serious infection can make the baby susceptible to having problems later in life like deafness, vision problems, seizures, and developmental delay.
This warning seems obvious, but since there have not been as many news reports lately about this virus, a reminder is always in order.
Talk to your Atlanta Obstetrics & Gynecology about neonatal infections in Atlanta, Georgia and stay aware of how to prevent any infections that can harm you or your child.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/features/prenatalinfections/index.html
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/prenatal/Pages/Simple-Steps-to-Prevent-Infections-During-Pregnancy.aspx
https://www.marshfieldclinic.org/specialties/obgyn/pregnancy/awareness/pregnancy-infection-prevention
You Might Also Enjoy...
You have just found out you are pregnant, and you are overwhelmed with excitement. There are so many things to do and plan for, but first things first. That means schedule your first prenatal visit with Atlanta Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates!
Endometriosis is a confusing condition with various symptoms, no symptoms, or severe symptoms. It’s not always easy to diagnose, leaving many women to suffer with pelvic pain and other unpleasant symptoms for years. Here are six signs you may have...
The CDC recommends that if you are a woman considering getting pregnant, start taking folic acid. If you just found out you are pregnant, start taking folic acid and continue to take it while you are pregnant.
Most of us are wary of looking stupid or asking stupid questions, but at your OBGYN, there is no such thing as a “stupid” question or subject. Trust us, we have heard it all.
A woman’s body goes through many changes during the nine months of pregnancy. Some are expected like nausea in the early months, weight gain (of course), and certain crazy cravings.
Heavy bleeding during your period is sometimes known medically as menorrhagia. Although every woman is different and menstrual cycles can vary, when should you see Atlanta Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates about a heavy period?