Listeriosis during pregnancy. We’ll answer all your questions.
Listeriosis in pregnancy has gone from being a little-known concern to one of the most searched terms on Google in recent weeks. If you’re pregnant, it’s especially important to be aware of this infection, as you—along with children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems (due to conditions like HPV, hepatitis C, etc.)—are part of the most vulnerable population.
For people with a strong immune system, this infection usually does not pose a serious risk. However, for those with compromised immunity, the likelihood of complications increases significantly. At URE Centro Gutenberg, as a medical center specialized in fertility and assisted reproduction, we want to clarify some important aspects of this disease. These are questions we’ve received recently from our patients regarding listeriosis in pregnancy.
What is listeriosis?
Listeriosis is an illness caused by a bacterium called Listeria monocytogenes. This bacterium can be found in raw and processed foods, unpasteurized dairy products, contaminated water, and more.
How is listeriosis transmitted?
The most common way to contract the infection is by consuming contaminated food. While the bacteria can also be present in environments like soil, animal feces, or polluted water, it is usually found in decaying organic matter like dairy products (milk, butter, cheese), meat, and fish.
What are the symptoms of listeriosis?
Symptoms can vary greatly depending on the person affected. A healthy person with a strong immune system might not even notice an infection. But people with weaker immunity—especially pregnant women—might experience flu-like symptoms: fever, headache, muscle aches, and, in some cases, digestive issues or abdominal pain.
How does listeriosis in pregnancy affect the baby?
The main danger of listeriosis in pregnancy is its high likelihood of reaching the fetus. Because it’s a rare disease, diagnosis and treatment often come too late—when damage is irreversible.
If the infection occurs during early pregnancy, it may lead to miscarriage or fetal death. In later stages, it can cause infection of the placental membranes and amniotic fluid, leading to preterm labor.
How is listeriosis diagnosed?
Diagnosis is made via a laboratory test using a bacterial culture from a sample of blood, amniotic fluid, or another relevant tissue.
What is the treatment for listeriosis?
As mentioned, in healthy individuals outside the risk groups, listeriosis usually does not require treatment. However, if you’re in a high-risk category and show signs of Listeriosis in pregnancy, antibiotic treatment should begin as early as possible. This can improve outcomes and prevent complications.
How can listeriosis be prevented?
If you’re pregnant or belong to another high-risk group, here are some key recommendations to reduce the risk of infection:
Thoroughly cook all foods, especially meats and eggs, to the appropriate temperature.
Wash fruits and vegetables well before eating.
Avoid dairy products made with unpasteurized milk. Soft cheeses like brie, camembert, blue cheese, or feta often fall into this category. Always read labels carefully.
Stay away from non-canned pâtés, raw or smoked fish unless you’re sure they were handled safely.
Wash your hands thoroughly, especially after handling raw foods.
Consume pre-cooked or ready-to-eat foods as soon as possible.
Final note
Have we answered your questions about Listeriosis in pregnancy? If you think you may have been exposed, or have eaten at-risk products recently, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
We also recommend following the website of the Spanish Agency for Consumer Affairs, Food Safety, and Nutrition (AECOSAN), which regularly updates food safety alerts and offers reliable information on listeriosis in pregnancy and other concerns.