Preventing Infections Before and During Pregnancy

Before planning your baby, you need to be extra careful about your health. Once you embark on your pregnancy journey, you must be more cautious as you need to give birth to your baby.

Here are a few precautions to keep yourself safe from infection during pregnancy:

• Be hygienic: Keeping yourself clean and tidy is your basic before and during your pregnancy. You can keep your hands germ-free by using soap and running water. Additionally, always keep your hand sanitizer by your side.

• Cook your meat well: Undercooked and processed meat has harmful bacteria known as Listeria monocytogenes. So, when you cook ground meat, cook it to a minimum of 160°F (71° C). If the meat is from the poultry, it should be cooked at 145° F (63°C).

• Avoid unpasteurized (raw) milk and foods made from it: Absolutely, it's important to avoid unpasteurized (raw) milk and foods made from it. Also, it's best to refrain from consuming soft cheeses such as feta, brie, and queso fresco unless they are made from pasteurized milk. Unpasteurized (raw) products can contain harmful bacteria that pose a risk during pregnancy.

• Get vaccinated: Vaccinations are crucial before, during, and after pregnancy. They can protect your health and also safeguard your baby from serious illnesses. For example, getting the flu vaccine while pregnant is vital. By ensuring you receive the right vaccinations at the right time, you can significantly benefit both yourself and your baby.

• Keep yourself safe against infection-carrying insects: Don't forget that infected mosquitoes can transmit viruses like the Zika virus, which has been linked to birth defects. Tick bites can spread diseases like Lyme disease, which can lead to pregnancy complications if left untreated. It's important to take preventive measures such as wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and checking for ticks after spending time outdoors, especially in wooded or grassy areas. If you suspect a tick bite or notice any symptoms related to tick-borne illnesses, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

• Try not to touch the cat litter: Take someone else’s help to do it. But, if you have to change the litter wear gloves and then do it.