Expert: Pat G - 4/3/2011

Question
Hello Doctors...
I want to ask about pregnancy and texoplasma...
I have a cat, it has been with me for over a year now, I’m married for about 18 months and I’m thinking of getting pregnant…
I have got the toxoplasma test and it was negative… my doctor said that I have give up the cat but I need another solution because I cant give her up at all.
My cat has been with me since she was 40days and she eats dry food only… she doesn’t go outside and so she’s not exposed to toxo herself!!
Please advise if there is something to be done without the risk of being infected during my pregnancy
And many thanks for your concern
Manal

p.s. I’m 27 years old and I have somehow good immune system as I don’t get sick a lot.

Answer
Hello, Manal,

Please know that I am not a doctor. I am a medical researcher.

The main thing they tell you about toxoplasmosis is that a pregnant woman should have someone else change the cat litter. That seems to be the major source of infection. You could probably have your cat tested as well. If she doesn't have it, either, then there is nothing to worry about. Handling raw meat, eating undercooked meat, or gardening can also pose a risk.

Here is more information on toxoplasmosis:

http://www.medicinenet.com/toxoplasmosis/article.htm
http://www.medicinenet.com/toxoplasmosis/page2.htm

I recommend you take Vitamin D3 daily. A dose of about 5000IU seems to be good. Have your blood tested to make sure you are getting enough and not too much. It should be over 50 and under 100 ng/ml. This will boost your immune system and protect you from a wide variety of infections. Since this is within normal range, it won't be a problem if you are pregnant.

I hope you are able to have a child soon.