E. coli infection during pregnancy can cause adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm rupture of the membrane and preterm birth (1). E.coli bacteria most commonly cause urinary tract infections by entering the urogenital tract. It can be contracted from contaminated food and water sources or through direct contact with an infected person or animal. However, avoiding the risk factors may prevent E.coli infections in pregnant women (2). Read on to know more about the transmission and complications of E.coli infection during pregnancy.
What Is E. Coli?
Escherichia Coli or E-coli is a bacterium that is naturally present in your gut and vagina, and is generally harmless. The trouble arises when it travels to places where it should not be, like your stomach or kidneys. Also, there are different strains of E. coli bacterium and some of them can be dangerous. In such circumstances it may cause infections, which can be risky during pregnancy (3).
What Are The Sources Of E. Coli?
While some form of E-coli is already present in your body, there are other sources which can pass on the bacteria to your system (4):
Raw fruits and vegetables, especially when they are not washed properly. Improperly cooked or unclean meat in any form. Animal and human feces. Water from swimming pools that is not treated with chlorine or is infected. Image: Shutterstock Contaminated and non-purified tap water, especially if it comes in contact with sewage or agricultural water. Unpasteurized milk. An infected animal can pass on the bacteria to the milk. Unpasteurized fruit juices. Wiping private parts in an improper direction. It should always be front to back.
E. coli can also spread by touch. If a person has the bacteria on their hands and touches you, it can be transferred to you.
What Are The Symptoms Of E. Coli Infection During Pregnancy?
In case you get infected with another strain, you should watch out for the following symptoms (1) (5): In most cases, it is difficult to realize that the infection is present, as the symptoms can be confused with something else. This makes it all the more tough to control the infection at the early stage.
E. Coli Infection And Pregnancy
The symptoms that accompany the infection may make you weak, restless and dehydrated. Further, your unborn baby may be affected in the following manner:
The infection has not been known to pass on to the unborn child through the placenta, so it does not have any direct effect. The bacterium that is found in the vagina can pass on during delivery. So if you have had E. coli infection during pregnancy, doctors will check your baby for any infections. Due to diarrhea and vomiting, you will feel weak and dehydrated. This can impact your unborn child and cause premature delivery. In case you have bleeding or severe cramps, immediately call your doctor. These symptoms, if aggravated, can cause miscarriage also. Image: iStock Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection. But some of these medicines are not safe for your baby, especially in the last trimester. Doctor discretion recommended.
How To Avoid E Coli Infection In Pregnancy?
While you are pregnant, regular urine cultures are done to find out whether you are infected with E. coli. Here are some tips to steer clear of the infection (2): As in all infections, basic hygiene is the key to being healthy. Avoiding food from unreliable eateries is the best precaution. Also, drink lots of water to flush away the germs and remain hydrated.
Points To Remember
Since nausea and upset stomach are common during pregnancy, the infection often goes unnoticed. If you notice any of the above stated symptoms, or have fever, then consult your doctor. It is best to have a test and get medications at the right time. One of the easiest ways to stay healthy during pregnancy is to ensure you are always in a clean environment and try to eat home-cooked meals as much as possible.
