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Why is toxoplasmosis especially dangerous during pregnancy?

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Toxoplasmosis is particularly dangerous during pregnancy because the parasite Toxoplasma gondii can be transmitted from a pregnant woman to her fetus through the placenta. This is known as congenital toxoplasmosis.12

When this transmission occurs, it can lead to severe outcomes, including miscarriage, stillbirth, or spontaneous abortion. If an infant is born with the infection, they may suffer from serious health complications, such as encephalitis, jaundice, mental defects, and eye disease.1

While many adults experience only mild or no symptoms from the infection, the risk to the developing fetus makes it a significant health concern. Because the parasite can be transmitted through contact with contaminated cat litter, pregnant individuals are often advised to take extra precautions regarding hygiene and the handling of pet waste to avoid accidental ingestion of oocysts.12