If you get food poisoning while pregnant will it hurt the baby?

It depends on the severity of the food poisoning and the stage of pregnancy.

Food poisoning is caused by eating food that is contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Food poisoning can cause vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain.

In most cases, food poisoning does not pose a serious threat to pregnant women or their babies. However, some types of food poisoning, such as listeriosis or toxoplasmosis, can cause serious illness in pregnant women and their babies.

Listeriosis is a rare but serious infection caused by the bacterium _Listeria monocytogenes_. Listeriosis can cause fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. In pregnant women, listeriosis can cause miscarriage, premature birth, and stillbirth.

Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection that is caused by the _Toxoplasma gondii_ parasite. Toxoplasmosis can cause fever, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. In pregnant women, toxoplasmosis can cause miscarriage, premature birth, and birth defects.

If you are pregnant and you experience any symptoms of food poisoning, it is important to see your doctor or midwife right away. Your doctor or midwife will be able to determine the cause of your food poisoning and recommend treatment.

To reduce your risk of getting food poisoning during pregnancy, follow these tips:

* Wash your hands frequently with hot, soapy water.

* Cook meat, poultry, and fish thoroughly.

* Do not eat raw or undercooked eggs.

* Avoid unpasteurized dairy products.

* Wash fruits and vegetables before eating them.

* Store food at safe temperatures.