How To Avoid Toxoplasmosis During Pregnancy

Certain infections can affect mothers-to-be during pregnancy. Some infections can spread to the fetus and have serious consequences. In this article we will talk about toxoplasmosis. We will also share with you a list of prohibited foods to avoid during pregnancy.

Toxoplasmosis is a foodborne illness. It is caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. This is quite normal and usually does not cause any major problems. However, it can cause problems if it reaches the placenta. It can then spread to the growing baby.

In this regard  , the key is to handle food properly and not eat prohibited foods during pregnancy, to avoid this condition. We will first explain what effects it can have on the newborn.

Effects of Toxoplasmosis on the Fetus and the Newborn

Babies affected by toxoplasmosis may be born prematurely and with a low birth weight. This disease can also leave scars on their retinas and give them jaundice. On the outside, you may notice jaundice if they have a yellowish complexion. However, these are all mild problems.

However,  there are also more serious problems. One is hydrocephalus. This is when fluids build up in the child’s brain. It makes his head physically bigger and gives him constant migraines. In addition, some newborns may suffer from chorioretinitis, a condition that affects their eyes.

In the worst case, this infection can turn into a very dangerous condition called erythroblastosis. With this condition , the mother produces antibodies that attack the red blood cells of the fetus. As a result, there will always be a chance of prenatal death.

We should mention that fetuses are most at risk in the first trimester of pregnancy. Getting the infection at this stage can be fatal for the baby.

Forbidden foods during pregnancy: watch out for meat

All animals that feed on grass contaminated with cat feces are carriers. Even working with raw meat can transmit the infection to mothers. So be very careful when preparing food with raw meat.

To avoid risks, we recommend eating cured meats. Many specialists rely on the freezing process to prevent parasitic growth in meat or sausage. Of all animals, pork products are the riskiest to eat.

However, meat-based foods are not the only thing that can have this problem. Fruits and vegetables can also be contaminated. That is why it is important to wash them properly. Be especially careful if you eat them raw.

Forbidden foods during pregnancy

Other risky foods include:

• shellfish
• Fish
• Cheeses
• unpasteurized milk
• Coffee

For fish and shellfish it is important to wash and cook them well.

Tips to prevent toxoplasmosis

An excellent recommendation is not to visit sushi restaurants during the early months of pregnancy. When eating fish, eat clean pieces without viscera. It’s also a good idea not to eat sausage. If you do, you should always freeze it before eating it.

Expectant mothers are at risk of infection even if they handle raw meat alone. Therefore, wash your hands carefully before, during and after handling raw meat.

Even contact with dirt or grass can be risky. So it is important to wash your hands and face thoroughly during your first trimester. Antibacterial soap is a good investment.

If there are cats in the house, it’s also a good idea to contact the vet. You need to be sure that your pet is not a carrier. Indoor cats that eat dry and canned food are usually not carriers.

How can a pregnant woman know if she has toxoplasmosis?

There is a medical test that lets pregnant mothers know if they have the infection. This is a blood test called a toxo test. Most gynecologists require this test.

There are three possible outcomes.

• If it is negative for IgG and IgM, it means that the pregnant woman is not a carrier. It also means she never had it.
• The results can be positive for IgG and negative for IgM. This is because she has had it in the past and is already immune.
• Finally , the mother may have negative IgG and positive IgM. This means that she currently has the infection. In this case, the doctor will then perform other tests to know the duration and intensity of the infection.