Not to alarm you, but during the third trimester, your body is particularly sensitive to infections that could affect both you and your little munchkin.
Here’s what happens:
Amniotic Fluid: Sometimes an infection can lead to your amniotic fluid getting infected. Yikes!
Preterm Labor: Infections can also stimulate early labor. Not the surprise we want!
Newborn Infections: The little one could potentially acquire infections while passing through the birth canal.
Fear not! Most infections are completely treatable, and knowing the signs early on can make all the difference.
Identifying the Culprits: Types of Infections
So, what are these mysterious trespassers you should be looking out for?
The usual suspects include Bacterial Vaginosis (BV), Group B Streptococcus (GBS), Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), and some viral nasties like Cytomegalovirus (CMV).
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty:
Bacterial Vaginosis: Often symptomless, but could lead to preterm birth.
Group B Streptococcus (GBS): Around 25% of pregnant women carry GBS in their body. It can be harmless for you but dangerous for the baby.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): These can sneak up on you. Frequent urination, burning, or even lower back pain can be signs.
Cytomegalovirus (CMV): This is generally harmless for adults but can cause developmental issues in newborns.
Get tested and consult your healthcare provider for the most accurate diagnosis and treatment plan tailored just for you!
Suit Up! Preventive Measures to the Rescue
Now that we know the enemies, how do we keep the fortress secure?
Prevention is not only better than cure; it’s often easier too! Take these preventive measures to keep both you and your baby safe:
Hygiene: The golden rule! Wash your hands regularly, and keep that hand sanitizer handy.
Avoid Crowd Surfing: Large crowds can be a breeding ground for germs. Stick to more intimate gatherings if possible.
Prenatal Screenings: Always, always, always go for your scheduled prenatal visits. These will help catch any infections in their early stages.
Safe Food Practices: Be cautious with your food. Make sure it’s well-cooked and always check the expiry dates.
Remember, the aim isn’t to become a germaphobe, but a germ-aware mom-to-be.
A healthy you means a healthy baby, so let’s keep those infections at bay.
J
Jadah
7 May 2022
Anybody else experience extreme itchiness and constant yeast infections in early pregnancy? I Didn’t experience this with my first pregnancy having my son 😭 it’s awful
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