The obstetrics and gynaecology team at Sidra Medical and Research Center (Sidra) has shared advice for the expectant mothers on preventing prenatal infections on the occasion of International Prenatal Infection Prevention Month (February).
Prenatal infection can, in some cases, have a serious impact on both mother and child during and after pregnancy. There are some simple steps pregnant woman can take to reduce the risk of contracting an infection.
“In many cases education and prevention are the best ways to fight disease. At Sidra, our mission is not only to treat patients but to ensure that they lead a healthy lifestyle throughout their lives. We hope to bring awareness to simple preventative measures that will help improve quality of life for mothers and families,” said Dr Guy Fender, a senior physician.
Experts also have stated that viral infections like cough and cold generally do not harm the mother or baby. However, persistent flu-like symptoms should be discussed with a doctor. Serious flu can be prevented through a vaccination offered to all mothers in the winter months. This vaccine is safe to give in early pregnancy and provides combined protection against flu and
bird-flu.
Pregnant women are advised to avoid certain foods such as unpasteurised milk and mold-ripened soft cheeses to protect themselves from some bacterial infections, such as listeriosis that can be passed on to an unborn baby.
Pregnant women should also be aware of parasitic infections. These can be avoided by rigorously washing fruits and vegetables to remove all traces of dirt and soil and ensuring all meat and poultry is cooked
thoroughly.
Pregnant women should avoid any contact with cats or cat litter to avoid infection with toxoplasma, which can harm an unborn baby.
Pregnant women also may take steps to reduce their risk of exposure to childhood diseases by avoiding contact with young children with a rash or a fever. Women should also seek medical advice if they haven’t had a blood test to check for immunity against German measles or
Rubella infection.
All mothers should be tested early in pregnancy for Hepatitis B which is part of a routine series of blood tests. Vaccination is a key form of prevention.
If travelling abroad to a high-risk area, women should be aware of serious infections including malaria and HIV. Women are generally advised to avoid travelling to countries where
immunisation is required.
Senior physician Dr Guy Fender
