Toxoplasmosis in Pregnancy

There are numerous fears and anxieties that pregnant women have. Probably the biggest fear is toxoplasmosis in pregnancy. Mainly because toxoplasmosis can not only cause miscarriages, but sometimes it can also cause damage to the unborn baby. For this reason, it is important to avoid all possible sources of infection.

Toxoplasmosis: higher risk of transmission for pregnant women

Pregnant women can become infected with toxoplasmosis more easily – due to a weakened immune system. For this reason, it is important that preventive measures are taken to help reduce the risk of infection with toxoplasmosis during pregnancy. However, if pregnant women do become infected, there are treatment options available to prevent the unborn child from becoming infected. It only becomes problematic if the physician determines that the unborn child is also infected. It does not have to mean that the unborn child is automatically damaged.

Causes of toxoplasmosis in pregnancy

Toxoplasmosis is a single-celled parasite – Toxoplasma gondii. The parasite is found worldwide; numerous humans and vertebrates are affected by it. About one third of the entire population is infected with Toxoplasma gondii. However, the parasite reaches its sexually mature form (final stage) only in feline animals. For this reason, predatory cats as well as domestic cats are classic end hosts. The parasite passes through numerous developmental stages – in the cat’s intestine – and the final product is excreted in the feces (oocysts – toxoplasma eggs). The eggs can also be transmitted to farm animals through the soil. Thus, toxoplasmas have already been found in sheep, poultry, cattle and pigs. Humans become infected via oocysts, which are found in contaminated soil or even in cat feces. Sometimes tissue cysts are also found in semi-raw or raw meat. The main sources of infection include lamb as well as pork.

Toxoplasmosis in early pregnancy

Although pregnant women can more easily become infected with toxoplasmosis, the likelihood of infection occurring just during pregnancy is low. It should be noted that toxoplasmosis can harm the unborn child. Miscarriages are possible, especially in the early stages of pregnancy.

Toxoplasmosis in advanced pregnancy.

If the pregnant woman becomes infected later in the pregnancy, the unborn child may develop hydrocephalus (so-called hydrocephalus). Sometimes there is also the possibility of brain damage. Damage to the eyes or damage to other organs is also possible. After birth, there are always babies who do not show any signs. It is possible that only with time (after several months or years) do symptoms and complaints appear that indicate a toxoplasmosis infection during pregnancy. These include hearing problems, eye damage and learning difficulties. Occasionally, however, the infection may not cause any damage; however, pregnant women should not rely on their luck, but should do everything possible to avoid foci of infection.

Diagnosis of toxoplasmosis

If a toxoplasmosis infection is suspected, the physician first takes a blood sample. This is examined for antibodies or antibodies. Based on the examination, the doctor can determine whether the pregnant woman has already been infected or not. Sometimes the physician can also determine the stage of the toxoplasmosis infection. If the pregnant woman has been infected, an examination of the amniotic fluid should subsequently take place. The sample provides information on whether the unborn child has also been infected. As a rule, two compulsory examinations are carried out during pregnancy, which are then documented in the mother-child passport.

Treatment and effects for mother and child

If the pregnant woman has been infected for the first time during pregnancy, the medical doctor will first suggest treatment with antibiotics. Administration of antibiotics prevents infection of the unborn baby. Mainly pyrimethamine, spiramycin or sulfadiazine are used. However, other antibiotics can also be administered to prevent the unborn child from becoming infected. Usually, the antibiotic has no effect on the child. Of course, such treatments must be taken in consultation with the doctor.However, it is advisable to maintain the course of antibiotics for at least four weeks, so that the infection can be completely killed or the infection is not transmitted to the child.

Prevention of toxoplasmosis during pregnancy.

It is important that the pregnant woman takes preventive measures to avoid becoming infected with toxoplasmosis. For example, she should avoid raw meat. Raw ham, Mett or Teewurst as well as Beef Tartar should be banned from the menu – due to possible tissue cysts of Toxoplasma. Even seasoning can cause infection. Raw sausages that have a very long maturing time (Parma ham, prosciuotto, Serrano ham or even a salami) have a theoretical risk and should also be avoided. Those who prepare pork or lamb should make sure that the meat is heated for several minutes – at least at 70 degrees. Furthermore, it is important to have good kitchen hygiene. Work surfaces as well as hands should be washed regularly. Furthermore, vegetables and fruits should be washed thoroughly before consumption. Those who have domestic cats should avoid contact with cat feces. For this reason, it is advisable to clean the litter box with gloves or ask your partner to remove the feces. Preventive measures help to protect against infection. If you follow a few tips and tricks, you will certainly not have any difficulties during your pregnancy and you do not need to be afraid of contracting toxoplasmosis or harming your child with it.