Infection with Human Parvovirus B19 is the cause of “Fifth Disease”, one of the five common viral exanthems (the others are measles [rubeola], chicken pox, mumps, and German measles [rubella]). The disease is asymptomatic in about 20% of those infected. This means that one has the infection but shows no symptoms. The symptoms of Fifth Disease include fever, mild malaise, a “slapped-cheek” facial rash, a lace-like trunk rash, and arthritis-type joint pain most often felt in the hands. Since the disease is caused by a virus, there is no specific antibiotic-type treatment available for either mother or fetus. Infection with the disease usually provides lifelong immunity.
Herpes Infection
There are actually several “herpes” viruses. What is commonly called “genital herpes” is an infection caused by one of two herpes viruses, either Herpes simplex virus I or Herpes simplex virus II……both abbreviated as HSV. Both of these viruses may be sexually transmitted, and spend their lifetimes travelling up and down nerve pathways close to the site of the initial entry point (usually near the penis or vulva). “Herpes” is common. As much as 10-30% of the U.S. population has been infected.
Preconceptional Health Care
If you have decided to get pregnant, consult your health care clinician about your overall health status. Make certain you tell her/him you are considering pregnancy. A preconceptional evaluation should include a complete physical examination, complete history (including your family history) and the following tests. If your evaluation doesn’t include these aspects, go see a health care clinician who specializes in women’s health care.
Does Exposure to Computer Terminals Harm Your Baby?
Computer terminals are the TV-like monitors that display the words and picture from your computer. These screens are also known as video display terminals (VDTs) and cathode ray tubes. In the early days of television, TVs emitted some forms of ionizing radiation (like x-rays). However, since the 1960s, TV tubes have used lead shields to eliminate this radiation.
Teratogens
There are things in this world which you should avoid if you are planning a pregnancy. A teratogen is a substance or condition which can cause a birth defect. There are relatively few, known teratogens. Not all birth defects are caused by teratogens. In fact, teratogens are probably responsible for less than 10% of human malformations.
Child Abuse
Abuse begats abuse….. abuse may span generations in a family……..however, your history does not have to be your legacy. If you are the victim of physical, emotional, or sexual child abuse, you should consult your health care clinician. Professional guidance can help prevent abuse of your children (and may promote your own inner healing). Although this topic may be difficult for you to express, your history is absolutely private and confidential.
Iron – Preparing for Pregnancy
Iron is a crucial building block for healthy blood. Studies done in the 1950’s showed that the majority of menstruating women had little to no iron stores. This is probably due to the fact that menstrual blood contains much of the iron consumed during the previous menstrual cycle. It was clear that women were not consuming enough iron, high-quality protein, and/or other nutritional factors which contribute to healthy blood.