Toxoplasmosis and pregnancy

During pregnancy, the parasite Toxoplasmosis is dangerous to the fetus malformation risk (Eye defects, cerebral, visceral, ...). Fortunately, many people have had toxoplasmosis, without knowing it: they will therefore be immunized against this parasite. A blood test performed in early pregnancy will check it.


The precautions to take during pregnancy

Few women have never been in contact with the parasite. They must have strict hygiene:
- Do not touch cat feces and be careful when changing the litter
- Wash your hands before and after meals, especially after touching raw meat, and eat well-cooked meat
- Wash fruit and vegetables
- Avoid eating products made from raw milk.

Doctors prescribe routinely to all pregnant women for the first time, a blood test early in pregnancy to see if they have been in contact with contaminated or not and if they are immunized against it.

The blood

It is to be found in the blood of antibodies to toxoplasmosis.
If mom has in her blood, it proves that she has been in contact with toxoplasma (the parasite) and his organization has made specific antibodies against this parasite. These antibodies help to defend themselves very quickly against a new attack.

In the absence of these antibodies, it means that the mother has never been in contact with the parasite. If she makes a toxoplasmosis during pregnancy, her body can not quickly enough to defend against the parasite that can reach the fetus.

Then in these pregnant women, blood tests will be performed every month during their pregnancy. In case of contact with the parasite, treatment is prescribed and the development of the fetus will be closely monitored.