How to Prevent 4 Most Common Infections during Pregnancy

1. Yeast Infection
Yeast infections, also known as monilial vaginitis or vaginal candidiasis, are caused by overgrowth of a fungus that is normal present in vagina of many women.

During pregnancy, the susceptibility to this infection increases much more than otherwise, to some extent due high estrogen levels. The infection is too annoying and may be painful as well. It will not harm the development of your baby but may pass on to him/her at the time of birth causing 'thrush', which needs treatment.

- Symptoms of Yeast Infection

• Itchiness, burning, irritation and redness of vagina
• White, creamy, odorless discharge from vagina
• Painful sex

- Prevention of Yeast Infection

- Ensure your vaginal area is always clean and dry.
- Wash your genital area with warm water, do not use harsh soap, detergent, or feminine hygiene sprays.
- Use breathable cotton underwear. Do not use leggings or pantyhose, especially the synthetic ones.
- Avoid wearing underwear during the night sleep so that your genital area gets air.
- Consume yogurt, it has Lactobacillus acidophilus, which may aid restoring proper vaginal microflora.

2. Listeriosis

Bacteria present in foods like unpasteurized milk, raw fish, undercooked poultry, hot dogs and soft cheese cause listeriosis. Pregnancy associated metabolic changes and suppression in immune system makes pregnant women more prone to infection by the bacteria.

Listeriosis may prove to be dangerous if left untreated causing miscarriage or stillbirth. It may also cause various adverse effects on the baby, which are apparent after birth as breathing problems and meningitis.

- Symptoms of Listeriosis

Symptoms appear days or even weeks after infection and include nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, body pain and diarrhea. See your doctor immediately if you have these symptoms.

- Prevention of Listeriosis

- Avoid the food that you suspect is infected
- Cook the food thoroughly
- Refrigerate the food below 0 °F and ensure your refrigerator is working properly

3. Toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis is caused by a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. It is not a very common infection during pregnancy, but if occurs, might be potentially damaging to the developing baby causing hearing and visual damages; enlargement of spleen and liver; pneumonia, jaundice and mental retardation. It may even cause miscarriage and stillbirth.