what is toxoplasmosis and what does it have to do with pregnancy ?

Toxoplasmosis is a disease that is spread by eating raw meat, infected meat or through contact with cat feces. While most of us are aware of being careful when handling or eating raw or infected meat, we may not be aware of the danger of handling cat excrement. While toxoplasmosis may not present any symptoms in a pregnant woman it can enter the placenta and affect an unborn baby. Infection with toxoplasmosis during pregnancy can result in miscarriage or an infected baby at birth. While there are antibiotics available to treat the condition it is wise to be aware of the disease and to take appropriate preventive measures, particularly when handling or eating meat or when around cats. A pregnant woman for instance should not touch cat litter. Washing hands thoroughly is also advised.

heart disease and pregnancy

Pregnancy adds approximately 50% extra load to a pregnant women’s heart. If a woman has a Read more

high blood pressure during pregnancy

Hypertension or high blood pressure can cause problems for both mother and her unborn Read more

what is an endometrium and how does it change during pregnancy ?

Endometrium – The endometrium is the uterine lining or inner membrane of the Read more

SLE and pregnancy

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease. If you suffer from SLE it is important to seek pre-conception advice. Although research indicates that if the disease is in remission pregnancy outcomes are good, SLE can sometimes result in: Read more

Kidney disease and pregnancy

Chronic renal (kidney) disease

If you suffer from a long-term renal problem it is important that you seek pre conception advice before becoming pregnant. A pregnant woman with pre-existing renal disease is considered to be at high risk of Read more

Preparing for pregnancy

The time to worry about your lifestyle and health is before you become pregnant, at pregnancy preconception. While traditionally the focus was on looking after your health during pregnancy its actually more important to… Read more