While Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) mostly affects young children, pregnant women might also contract this disease. It can, therefore, turn out to be potentially harmful for both the mother and the developing fetus.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the seasonal outbreaks of HFMD, especially during the summer and fall, greatly impact kids. Though there is no specific data when it comes to HFMD’s impact on pregnant women, it is estimated that some women who are in close contact with the infected children can contract the virus.
Read below this article to explore the symptoms, causes, prevention, and treatment of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease.
Symptoms of HFMD
The signs of HFMD in pregnant women are similar to those in regular patients. Here are some common symptoms:.
- Mild to moderate fever
- Sore throat
- Pain and discomfort in the throat
- Rashes and blisters on the palms, soles, or buttocks
- Painful sores inside the mouth
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Difficulty swallowing
Causes of HFMD
HFMD usually spreads through direct contact with an infected person via
- Nasal descretions
- Throat discharges
- Saliva
- Fluid from blisters
- Faeces, particularly during diaper changes,
- Contaminated surfaces
Potential Complications In Pregnancy
Though the impact of HFMD is mild, sometimes it may pose certain risks and complications in pregnancy.
- First trimester: In very rare cases, the viral infection may result in a miscarriage or other serious complications.
- Third trimester: In cases where infection contracts around the delivery date, there are chances the infection might pass down to the newborn, causing severe complications.
Prevention
Since HFMD contracts via direct contact from contaminated sources, it is easy to prevent by practicing good hygiene tips. Frequent hand washing after diaper changes or using the toilet is recommended to avoid any risks of contamination. Besides, avoiding close contact, disinfecting and cleaning utensils regularly, and avoiding handling any contaminated object can greatly reduce the risk of contracting the virus.
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease can be a concerning condition during pregnancy. Therefore, if you notice any symptoms, such as high fever, mouth pain, or difficulty swallowing, and you suspect you’ve been in close contact with an HFMD-infected person, it is recommended that you seek immediate medical attention to avoid any pregnancy complications.
