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- **Toxoplasmosis Overview:** - Caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. - Often asymptomatic in healthy individuals, but can be serious during pregnancy. - **Risks During Pregnancy:** - The parasite can cross the placenta and infect the fetus. - May lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or congenital defects (e.g., eye or brain issues). - **Prevention Measures:** - **Food Safety:** - Avoid raw or underco...
- **What is Listeriosis?** - A foodborne infection caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. - Commonly found in contaminated foods such as unpasteurized dairy products, soft cheeses, deli meats, and ready-to-eat foods. - **How Does It Affect Pregnancy?** - **Placental Transfer:** Listeria can cross the placenta, directly infecting the fetus. - **Complications:** Increases the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or ...
Viral Infections during Pregnancy - **Influenza (Flu):** - **Complications:** Can lead to severe respiratory illness, pneumonia, increased hospitalization risk, preterm labor, and low birth weight. - **Prevention:** Annual vaccination, proper hand hygiene, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. - **Rubella:** - **Complications:** Infection during early pregnancy can cause congenital rubella syndrome, leading to heart defects, he...
- **Definition & Diagnosis:** - Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-related condition marked by high blood pressure and signs of organ damage (especially to the liver and kidneys). - It usually develops after 20 weeks of gestation, though it can sometimes occur earlier. - Diagnosis involves measuring blood pressure (typically ≥140/90 mmHg) and testing for protein in the urine. - **Symptoms:** - Severe headaches and visual disturbances (blu...
Cervical insufficiency, also known as an incompetent cervix, is a condition in which the cervix begins to shorten, open, or dilate prematurely without the usual pain or contractions associated with labor. This can occur during the second trimester and may lead to preterm birth or even pregnancy loss if not managed appropriately. ### What is Cervical Insufficiency?- **Definition:** It’s a weakening or inability of the cervix to stay closed during pregnancy.- **Causes a...
### **Is It Dangerous for the Umbilical Cord to Be Around the Baby’s Neck Before Delivery?** The umbilical cord wrapped around the baby’s neck is called a **nuchal cord**. It is **fairly common** and happens in about **20-30% of pregnancies**. In most cases, it does **not** cause serious problems, but in some situations, it can pose risks. ### **When Is a Nuchal Cord Not Dangerous?** %u2714%uFE0F The cord is **loose** – Most babies are s...
What is amniotic fluid? Amniotic fluid is a clear, slightly yellowish liquid that surrounds and protects a developing fetus within the amniotic sac during pregnancy. It plays a crucial role in fetal development by cushioning the fetus against external pressure, allowing for movement, and aiding in the development of muscles, limbs, lungs, and the digestive system. ...
What is Gestational Diabetes? Gestational diabetes (GD) is high blood sugar during pregnancy due to hormones affecting insulin. It usually develops between 24-28 weeks and typically disappears after birth. Testing for GD The test happens in two steps: Glucose Challenge Test (Screening) Drink 50g of glucose Blood ...
