Illnesses and Infections During Pregnancy

Below are listed five infections and illnesses that can occur during pregnancy. Each of these conditions is treatable, but if left untreated these illnesses and infections during pregnancy may put your baby at risk. This is only a rough guide to several illnesses and infections during pregnancy; be sure to speak with your health care provider if you are experiencing any unusual symptoms such as those listed below.

Cholestasis
Symptoms
Cholestasis of pregnancy is a liver disease in which the normal functioning of the gallbladder is disturbed by the hormones of pregnancy. Symptoms may include depression, discolored urine, fatigue and loss of appetite. Women with Cholestasis of pregnancy may also experience itching on their hands and feet.

Danger to Fetus
Cholestasis of pregnancy can increase fetal distress and could lead to premature birth. It can also cause strain on the baby's liver.

Treatment
Treatments for Cholestasis of pregnancy include topical anti-itch creams, steroids and cold baths. Vitamin K supplements may also be recommended, and natural liver treatments such as dandelion root or milk thistle may be beneficial.

Group B Streptococcus
Symptoms
Group B Strep is caused by a bacteria that is already present in 40% of women, and most women do not have any symptoms. You should be screened for Group B Strep when you are 35 to 37 weeks pregnant.

Danger to Fetus
There is a small chance that you could pass Group B Strep to your baby during delivery, but most babies are unaffected by this infection. If it does pass to your baby, it could cause complications such as blood pressure instability, breathing problems, meningitis, pneumonia and sepsis.

Treatment
Group B Strep infections during pregnancy are treated with antibiotics, which reduce the risk of fetal infection. A midwife or homeopathic doctor may recommend an herbal treatment such as goldenseal, Echinacea or tea tree oil.

Listeria
Symptoms
Listeria is a rare type of food poisoning that you are more susceptible to during pregnancy, especially during the third trimester. Symptoms of Listeria are flu-like and include aching muscles, fever, headache and nausea. If the infection spreads to the nervous system, more serious infections such as disorientation and convulsions may occur.

Danger to the Fetus
Early treatment of Listeria during pregnancy can avert danger to the fetus, but if untreated, Listeria during pregnancy could lead to miscarriage or premature labor. The infection can also be passed to the baby, causing the newborn to become ill.

Treatment
The standard treatment for Listeria during pregnancy is antibiotics. Early treatment is important to avoid danger to the baby.

Urinary Tract Infection
Symptoms
The symptoms of a urinary tract infection during pregnancy include aching bladder, frequent urination, incontinence and an uncomfortable burning sensation during urination. Urine may have an odd appearance or smell, and blood may be present. If the urinary infection passes into your bloodstream or kidneys, it can cause more severe symptoms such as fever, pelvic pain and vomiting.

Danger to Fetus
If the urinary infection becomes a kidney infection, there is a chance that it can cause premature labor.

Treatment
The sooner you can treat a urinary tract infection during pregnancy, the fewer symptoms you will experience and the safer your baby will be. The standard treatment for a urinary tract infection during pregnancy is a 3-7 day course of antibiotics.

Yeast Infection
Symptoms
Yeast infections are most common during the second trimester of pregnancy. The symptoms of a yeast infection during pregnancy include excessive discharge, itching or irritation of vaginal region and burning during urination.

Danger to Fetus
If a yeast infection is not cleared up, it can be passed to your baby's mouth during delivery. This is not a serious condition, and the baby can be easily treated with an antifungal drug.

Treatment
Yeast infections during pregnancy are treated only with vaginal creams or suppositories rather than with any oral medications. It may take up to two weeks for a yeast infection during pregnancy to clear up.

Sources:
American Pregnancy Association; Pregnancy Complications: http://www.americanpregnancy.org/pregnancycomplications/index.htm

Life's Little Blessings Birth Services; Group B Strep and Screening: http://lifes-little-blessings.com/group_b_strep_and_screening.htm

Women's Health; Infections During Pregnancy: http://www.womens-health.co.uk/infect.asp