Take control of any current or preexisting medical problems, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. To be effective, it must be taken every day before becoming pregnant and during early pregnacy. Avoid exposure to alcohol and drugs during pregnancy. Exposure to high levels of some types of radiation and some chemical and toxic substances may adversely affect the developing fetus. In addition, pregnant women should avoid all contact and exposure to cat feces and cat litter, which may contain a parasite toxoplasma gondii that causes toxoplasmosis.
Toxoplasmosis can cause a serious illness in, or death of, the fetus.
A pregnant woman can reduce her risk of infection by avoiding all potential sources of the infection. A blood test before or during pregnancy can determine if a woman has been exposed to the toxoplasma gondii parasite. Begin taking a prenatal vitamin daily, prescribed by your physician, to make certain that your body gets all the necessary nutrients and vitamins needed to nourish a healthy baby. We regret that we can't answer medical questions via e-mail. This website and all contents copyright MCG Health Care , 2000-2001.