Good Hygiene Practices Reduce the Risk of Infections During Pregnancy

Expecting a baby is the time when a woman’s body experiences astonishing changes to provide for the new life. However, these changes also mean that the woman is more susceptible to infections. The immune system will weaken by default to safeguard the baby thus making cleanliness very important. What is more, even small infections can become dangerous for both the mother and the baby if they are not handled properly.

This blog is a guide on how practicing good hygiene can be your fence against infections in pregnancy and why small frequent habits are the most important.

Why Hygiene Matters More During Pregnancy

In the course of pregnancy, the body’s immune system changes and as a result the mothers-to-be are more susceptible to bacteria, viruses and fungi. Such infections can cause a chain of adverse effects, for instance that the baby will be born too early or will have low weight. It may also be that the child development will slow down. That’s why cleanliness, which is often seen as a mere luxury, becomes the mother’s strongest defense.

These preventive measures not only protect the mother but also ensure that the baby is safe. It is like they are building a barrier that neither one of them can be harmed.

Personal Hygiene: The First Line of Defense

A few daily habits can help minimize infection risks effectively:

• Hand Hygiene

On the other hand, washing hands regularly is counted among the easiest and most successful measures taken as a prevention of infections. Besides, it is through the acts of washing hands before meals, after restroom use or after contact with common surfaces that people get rid of bacteria and viruses responsible for infections as well as other diseases.

• Intimate Hygiene

Besides, hormonal changes can trigger the vaginal area to be less resistant. For them to stay at their best, they have to be washed with mild and unscented soap, kept dry and still wear breathable cotton underwear in order to keep the natural balance and fend off bacteria.

• Oral Care

The majority of women get the condition of gum sensitivity or inflammation during pregnancy. Brushing twice a day, flossing and going for dental checkups on a regular basis are the measures taken to prevent the occurrence of gum infections that may have indirect effects on the general health of the pregnancy.

Food and Water Safety: Clean Nutrition Matters

Pregnant women need to take special care about their diet. Infections that are carried through food, such as listeriosis and toxoplasmosis, can be a cause of trouble for the fetus.

• Fruits and vegetables should always be properly washed.
• Make sure that meat and seafood are fully cooked.
• Do not consume milk or cheese that is not pasteurized.
• Have water that is clean, filtered or boiled.

Such small steps significantly lower the risk of getting infected and offer healthful and safe food for the mother and the baby.

Environmental Hygiene: Your Surroundings Count

A clean environment is equally important as good personal hygiene. Pregnant women need to stay away from being in contact with dust, molds or pet waste for a long time as they are likely to cause allergies or infections.

Apart from this, it is very important to wear gloves while handling raw food or gardening soil. Regular disinfection of the frequently touched surfaces, ensuring good ventilation and utilizing mild cleaning agents can help in the formation of a safe home environment

Rest, Nutrition, and Stress Management

Hygiene is not only about the body, it is also about the balance of one’s life. Good sleep, healthy food, water intake and a positive emotional state are some of the factors that lead to the body’s immune response. An expectant mother can keep strong by effectively handling stress with the help of gentle yoga, meditation, or prenatal classes.

Good hygiene is necessary for a healthy pregnancy and it is one of the key factors that contribute to it. The good hygiene habits decrease the chances of infections, keep the body strong against diseases and provide a healthy environment for your baby to grow. 

We at Sugam Hospital, are committed to giving the best care to the mother combining professional medical treatment and safe hygienic practices, along with loving guidance to make the mother feel at ease all through the journey.

If you desire the guidance of a trained professional, prenatal medical support, then please get in touch with our gynecologist specialist in Chennai for maternity care that is personalized and safe.