Being pregnant can be exciting and overwhelming at the same time.  However you may be worried about how to protect your developing baby from any harm. Fortunately there are many contagious infections you may already be immune to .  The most dangerous for a  developing baby , Rubella ( German measles ) is also very rare thanks to successful vaccination program.

You also have to know that most infections have no effect on the developing baby even if the expectant mom has it. However some infections can be transmitted through the placenta or during birth. When this happens , it can have serious consequences on the baby. Some of these infections can lead to complications  such as preterm labor.

You can’t prevent all infections during pregnancy . However there are ways to reduce your risk. Getting timely prenatal care  is very essential to helping your provider catch these infections early. If you have been exposed to any of these infections , it is important to get help early to prevent any complications in pregnancy.

Other steps to take to reduce the risk include the following :

• wash your hands
• dont share glasses and utensils
• use gloves when gardening
• dont change cat litter
• stay away from sick people

Some infections that can have an effect on your pregnancy.

They include :

• Bacterial vaginosis
• Chicken pox
• Chikungunya
• Cytomegalovirus
• Dengue fever
• Fifth disease (parvovirus)
• Flu
• Gonorrhea
• Strep B virus
• Hepatitis B
• Herpes
• HIV
• Listeriosis
• Rubella ( german measles )
• Sexually Transmitted Disease
• Syphilis
• Toxoplasmosis
• Trichomoniasis
• Urinary Tract Infections
• Zika virus

If you’ve been exposed to any of these cdiseases, let your doctor know right away.