Preventing Infections During Pregnancy: Expert Tips

Pregnancy can be a vulnerable time for both mother and baby, with increased stress leading to infections that can cause complications like premature birth, low birth weight, or serious illnesses. Dr. Aparna Jha, an obstetrician and gynecologist from Bengaluru-Brookefield, shares expert advice on how expectant mothers can stay safe and reduce the risk of infections.

Key Takeaways:

• Eat fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, or other fermented items to maintain good bacteria in the stomach and fight infections.
• Use antibiotics only when prescribed by a doctor, as they can harm the helpful bacteria in the body.
• Get vaccinated against serious infections like influenza, tetanus, and pertussis to protect both the mother and baby.
• Use only filtered or boiled water and avoid ice from untrusted sources to prevent waterborne infections like hepatitis A or parasitic infections.
• Avoid unwashed raw or undercooked vegetables and animal proteins to prevent foodborne infections.
• Wash fruits and vegetables well, use gloves, and avoid handling cat litter to reduce exposure to diseases like toxoplasmosis.
• Maintaining a healthy gut, avoiding antibiotics misuse, and following a nutritious diet can help keep a healthy immune system and reduce the risk of infections.

Statistics:

• Infections during pregnancy can cause complications like premature birth, low birth weight, or serious illnesses in both the mother and baby.
• Eating fermented foods can help maintain good bacteria in the stomach and fight infections.
• Vaccinations can protect both mother and baby from serious infections like influenza, tetanus, and pertussis.
• Waterborne infections like hepatitis A or parasitic infections can be prevented by using only filtered or boiled water.
• Foodborne infections can be prevented by avoiding unwashed raw or undercooked vegetables and animal proteins.
• A healthy gut and a balanced diet can help reduce the risk of infections during pregnancy.

Sources:

• HT Lifestyle
• Hindustan Times