A woman can significantly reduce her risk of infection through various preventative measures focusing on hygiene, safe practices, and medical interventions.
Hygiene Practices
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Handwashing: Frequent handwashing with soap and water is crucial. This is especially important after using the toilet, before eating, and after contact with potentially contaminated surfaces. (Source: South Dakota Department of Health)
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Safe Food Handling: Avoiding unpasteurized (raw) milk and foods made from it minimizes the risk of foodborne illnesses. (Source: South Dakota Department of Health)
Avoiding Exposure
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Zika Virus Prevention: Taking precautions against mosquito bites is vital in preventing Zika virus infection. (Source: CDC - Preventing Zika)
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Animal Contact: Avoiding contact with wild or pet rodents and their droppings reduces exposure to potential pathogens. (Source: South Dakota Department of Health)
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Cat Litter: Refrain from touching or changing dirty cat litter to prevent toxoplasmosis. (Source: South Dakota Department of Health)
Medical Interventions & Lifestyle Choices
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STD Testing and Prevention: Regular testing for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and practicing safe sex significantly reduce the risk of infection. (Source: South Dakota Department of Health)
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HPV Prevention: The HPV vaccine can protect against certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) infections. (Source: NIH News in Health - Protect Yourself Against HPV)
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HIV Prevention: PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) and PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) medications can be used to prevent HIV infection. (Source: NIH - The Basics of HIV Prevention)
Additional Considerations During Pregnancy:
During pregnancy, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for specific advice on infection prevention. (Source: HealthyChildren.org - Simple Steps to Prevent Infections During Pregnancy)
