Toxoplasmosis in pregnancy: what it is and how to prevent it
Learn the recommendations of Dr. Ángel Lorenzo, gynecologist at the Women's Unit
During pregnancy, it is important to take extreme care to protect the health of both mother and baby. One of the most worrying infections at this stage is toxoplasmosis, caused by a parasite called Toxoplasma gondiiAlthough it often presents no symptoms, it can have serious consequences if transmitted to the fetus.
In this video, the Dr. Ángel Lorenzo, a gynecologist at the Women's Unit, explains clearly and simply what toxoplasmosis is, how it is transmitted and, above all, what measures can be taken to prevent it.
How is toxoplasmosis transmitted?
The most frequent route of contagion is ingestion of contaminated food, especially:
- Raw or undercooked meats
- Poorly washed fruits and vegetables
- Food handled without proper hygiene
It can also be acquired through contact with infected animals, especially cats or rabbits, or when handling soil or gardens without adequate protection.
How to prevent it during pregnancy?
Dr. Lorenzo recalls some key prevention measures:
- Wash your hands well before and after preparing food.
- Disinfect fruits and vegetables with food-safe products
- Cook meats thoroughly, avoiding eating them raw.
- Wear gloves when gardening or handling soil.
- Avoid contact with cat feces and clean the litter box carefully.
What happens if a pregnant woman contracts toxoplasmosis?
In most cases, the infection is asymptomatic, but can transmitted to the baby through the placenta, especially in advanced stages of pregnancy. Therefore, prevention and medical follow-up are essential.
If a woman has already had toxoplasmosis before pregnancy, she usually develops immunity that protects her during pregnancy.
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If you found this article interesting and would like to be seen by a professional expert in Gynecology and Obstetrics, the Women's Unit at Ruber International Hospital has a specialized unit in this area. You can request more information by calling the following numbers: 91 387 51 72/73/74 or make an appointment for an in-person consultation, always with the best specialists.