Infections during pregnancy are a common problem for many women. Pregnancy can make the body more susceptible to infections and increase the risk of complications that may occur if left untreated.

There are many different types of infections that can affect pregnant women and their developing fetus. Some of these infections are bacteria while others are viruses or fungi.

Infections can also be spread from mother to baby during delivery through skin wounds or cuts on the baby’s hands or face or through close contact with infected body fluids or excretions from the mother’s vagina (not including normal vaginal discharge).

It is important to take note of how you feel before, during, and after giving birth so that you can get treatment quickly if necessary.

Here are nine tips to help you avoid infection during pregnancy:

Maintain basic hygiene

When you’re pregnant, staying clean is key to keeping your health in check. One of the easiest ways to avoid infection is by maintaining basic hygiene. This means washing your hands regularly and avoiding touching your face, nose, or mouth after touching something dirty. You should also make sure that you clean any surfaces that may be contaminated with germs.

Keep a distance from people with the infection

You should keep a distance from people who have the flu, as well as those who are recovering from it. If you do get sick, stay at home for a few days until you feel better. This will stop the spread of germs in your home and help prevent any further infections.

Wash your hands regularly

Hand washing isn’t just about keeping bacteria off your hands; it’s also about removing dirt and grime from them too! So make sure you wash your hands with soap and water after using the toilet or changing a nappy, then use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when necessary.

Ensure you’re vaccinated

This is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself from infection during pregnancy. Make sure you’ve had all the recommended vaccines before conceiving so that your immune system is ready for pregnancy. Continue vaccinating, as needed, up to six months after giving birth.

Get your vitamins

You should ensure that you’re getting enough of the vitamins and minerals your body needs to stay healthy during pregnancy. This includes calcium, iron, folate, and vitamin D. You should also make sure that you’re eating foods rich in iron such as red meat and green leafy vegetables.

Keep traveling to a minimum

Traveling can cause a lot of stress and increase the risk of infection. Try to avoid travel if possible during pregnancy; even short trips can be risky if they involve flights or crowded conditions.

Wear a mask when outdoors

The most common airborne threat to pregnant women is the flu virus, which can lead to complications such as preterm birth or infection in the baby. To keep yourself safe, avoid contact with people who are sick, including sneezing and coughing, especially if they are in close proximity to you. And if you must go outside while wearing a mask, avoid crowds and public places where there are lots of people who may be coughing or sneezing around you.

Cook your food until it’s done

Raw meats and seafood can contain harmful bacteria that will make you sick if they aren’t cooked properly. This can also apply to fruits and vegetables—don’t eat any that look spoiled or have soft spots on them (they may not look bad but still contain bacteria). And don’t forget about raw eggs! In general, avoid uncooked foods.

Stay away from any type of insects

Mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks can carry diseases such as malaria, West Nile virus, and Lyme disease among others. Avoid areas where these insects are found like forests, parks, or pools of water where they breed.

Keep in touch with your doctor

In the end, you want to stay in touch with your doctor. In case you ever notice any symptoms of infection, you can take prompt steps and get the needed help from your doctor. Regular consultation with the doctor will also help you get a better picture of dos and don’ts to avoid infection during pregnancy.