Final answer:
During pregnancy, infections can be harmful to the unborn baby, which is why prenatal care and avoiding certain risks are important. Prenatal care monitors health and reduces complications, while vaccination and avoiding toxins like cat feces contribute to a safer pregnancy. Non-communicable diseases like skin cancer aren't passed to the fetus.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a pregnant woman falls ill, there is understandable concern about the well-being of the unborn baby. It is true that infections during pregnancy can pose risks to the newborn, including serious illness or even death. It is crucial for expectant mothers to avoid toxins and consume necessary nutrients to support normal fetal growth and development. Additionally, certain infections, like toxoplasmosis, acquired through cat feces can be harmful, therefore pregnant women are advised to avoid contact with cat litter boxes.
During pregnancy, the immune system is modulated, making the mother more susceptible to infections, such as those by Listeria monocytogenes, which can be dangerous for the fetus. This is why routine prenatal care is key, as it can reduce risks of complications by monitoring both the mother's and fetus's health. Women should discuss pregnancy planning with their healthcare provider, including taking a vitamin with folic acid and making lifestyle adjustments.
Moreover, concerns about vaccination, like the MMR vaccine, should be addressed with reliable, peer-reviewed information that attests to the safety and effectiveness of immunizations, dismissing false claims of links to autism. It is also important to note that non-communicable diseases in the mother, such as skin cancer, are not transmitted to the child during pregnancy.