Thread by @AVONHMO

Pregnancy is a good thing that women aspire to at some point in their lives. However, it can make women more susceptible to certain infections or make these infections more severe.

Let's talk about it.
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Some infections that occur during pregnancy primarily pose a risk to the mother. Other infections can be transmitted to the baby through the placenta or during birth. When this occurs, the baby is at risk for health complications as well.
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Some infections that develop during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, preterm labour, or birth defects. They may even be life-threatening for the mother. Medications used to treat infections can also cause serious side effects for the baby.
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Why are pregnant women are more susceptible to infection?

Pregnancy affects every system in your body. Changes in hormone levels and immune system function can make you more vulnerable to infections and serious complications.
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Changes in immunity

During pregnancy, your immune system changes so that it can protect both you and your baby from disease. Different parts of your immune system are enhanced while others are suppressed.
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These changes also help protect your baby from your body’s defences. In theory, your body should reject the baby as “foreign,” but it doesn’t. Similar to an organ transplant, your body sees your baby as part “self” and part “foreign.”
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Despite these protective mechanisms, you’re more prone to infections that don’t normally cause illness. During pregnancy, your immune system has to work harder since it’s supporting two. This makes you susceptible to certain infections.
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Changes in body systems

Aside from changes in immune function, hormonal changes can also increase your risk of infection. These fluctuations in hormone levels often affect the urinary tract, which is made up of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and the urethra.
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Risks for mother

Some infections that occur during pregnancy pose problems primarily for the mother. These include urinary tract infections, vaginitis, and postpartum infection.
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Risks for baby

Other infections are particularly troublesome for the baby. For example, cytomegalovirus, toxoplasmosis, and parvovirus can all be transmitted from mother to baby. If this happens, it may have serious consequences.
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Risks for both mother and baby

Some infections are particularly harmful to both mother and baby. These include syphilis, listeriosis, hepatitis, HIV, and group B streptococcus (GBS).
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When you're pregnant, knowledge and ongoing care is everything.

The relationship between you and your doctor is vital during your pregnancy. Knowing about the increased risk of infection during pregnancy can help you prevent it.
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Being aware of the different types of infection that could arise also allows you to recognize the symptoms. If you become ill, receiving a prompt diagnosis and effective treatment can often prevent complications.
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How to prevent infections in pregnancy

Infections in pregnancy are preventable. Taking small, every day precautions can go a long way in reducing possible harm to you and your baby.
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To help prevent infections during pregnancy:

- Regularly wash your hands with soap and water.
- Cook meats until they are well-done.
- Don’t consume unpasteurized, or raw, dairy products.
- Don’t share eating utensils with other people.
- Ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date.

Finally, schedule an appointment with your doctor right away if you’re sick or believe you’ve been exposed to a contagious disease. The sooner an infection is diagnosed and treated, the better the outcome for you and your baby.
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