Infection in Pregnancy

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Toxoplasmosis, Rubella, CMV, Hepatitis, Varicella (Chicken pox), HIV, Herpes, other STDs, UTI - Urinary Tract Infection, Group B Streptococcus, Chorioamniotis, Other Infections, Weblinks

Infection in pregnancy can lead to serious problems for the mother, the baby or both. Infections can be classified in many ways; by the type of infection e.g. bacterial, viral, protozoan etc., or by the risks for mother and baby in pregnancy, delivery and after birth.

The common infections that can harm the fetus during pregnancy include:

Toxoplasmosis - a protozoan infection that can be acquired from dog and cat faeces, and from eating uncooked meat and fish. A blood test can tell you if you have already been exposed to Toxoplasmosis (many women have and do not realise they have been exposed). If not special precaution around domestic animals is advisable. Uncooked meat and fish (including smoked meats and fish) should also be avoided.