Pregnancy and Illnesses

What if I get Chicken Pox while pregnant

When a pregnant woman becomes infected with the Chicken Pox virus, she and her baby are at risk. It can develop into pneumonia for the mother. Her baby can be at risk for birth defects such as defects of muscle, bones, malformed or paralized limbs, a smaller than normal head, blindness, seizures or mental retardation.

If a pregnant woman comes in contact with someone who has Chicken Pox, she should call her doctor immediately. An injection may be needed to keep her and her baby safe.

If a pregnant woman has had Chicken Pox previous to pregnancy experts say not to worry. Be sure to touch base with your doctor to inform him that you have been exposed.

How can Toxoplasmosis affect pregnancy

Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by parasites from uncooked meat or from contact with the feces of a cat. It can be a serious condition for a pregnant woman. Because the symptoms resemble the flu, it is hard to diagnose. A blood test is available to determine if toxoplasmosis is present.

Fifth Disease and Pregnancy

Fifth Disease (erythema infectiosum) is a mild common childhood illness that is spread by airborne respiratory droplets. Symptoms include a flushed cheek rash on the face as mild fever, headache and sore throat. Joint pain usually accompanies other symptoms.

Although most babies are not affected by the disease, when one is it can be serious. It disrupts the baby's ability to produce red blood cells leading to dangerous forms of anemia, heart failure and less frequently infant death. There is a blood test that can determine if a woman has the illness but is is not widely available.

If you are pregnant and have been exposed to Fifth Disease you should consult your physician without delay.