Skip navigation

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock ( ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

URL of this page: https://medlineplus.gov/infectionsandpregnancy.html

Infections and Pregnancy

On this page

See, Play and Learn

  • No links available

Resources

Summary

During pregnancy, some common infections like the common cold or a skin infection do not usually cause serious problems. But other infections can be dangerous to you, your baby, or both. Some infections may lead to preterm birth and low birth weight babies. Others can cause serious illness, birth defects, and lifelong disabilities, such as hearing loss or learning problems.

Some of the infections that can be dangerous during pregnancy include:

To try to prevent infections:

  • Don't eat raw or undercooked meat.
  • Don't share food or drinks with other people.
  • Wash your hands frequently.
  • Don't empty cat litter. Cats can transmit toxoplasmosis.
  • Talk to your health care provider about vaccinations.
  • If you have sex during pregnancy, use a condom every time.

If you do get an infection during pregnancy, contact your health care provider about how best to protect you and your baby. Only some medicines are safe during pregnancy.

Start Here

Diagnosis and Tests

Prevention and Risk Factors

Related Issues

Specifics

Clinical Trials

Find an Expert

Patient Handouts

The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.