February is…International Prenatal Infection Prevention Month

There are several different prenatal infections. Some of these include Bacterial Vaginosis, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis, HIV/AIDS, HPV (Human Papillomavirus) and Listeria. These infections commonly reach the womb by traveling upwards through the vagina or cervix but can also travel from the maternal blood stream through the placenta. There are things you can do to help prevent these infections.

Keeping all your prenatal appointments and having open, honest conversations with your doctor or provider are the first things you should do to care for yourself and your baby. Other things you should be doing, to help prevent prenatal infections, are:

• Having good personal hygiene which includes frequent handwashing.
• Eating a healthy, balanced diet and making sure all food is prepared in a clean environment.
• Avoiding bodily fluids (blood, saliva, mucus, etc.) from other people.
• Having all appropriate immunizations, as recommended by your doctor.
• Staying alert to environmental hazards such as cigarette smoke and pests (mosquitoes, ticks, etc.).

Remember, your doctor is the best source of information regarding infection prevention and treatments. If you have concerns, please call us at 937-323-7340 to either schedule an appointment or speak with our clinical staff. Appointments can also be requested through our patient portal (myhealthrecord.com) or on our website, www.physurg.net.

Reference: https://www.groupbstrepinternational.org/february-is-international-prenatal-infection-awareness-month.html