Natural Deworming Pregnancy: Safe Ways to Reduce Worm Risk

Worried about intestinal worms while pregnant? That’s reasonable—worms can cause fatigue and anemia, which make pregnancy harder. You don’t have to turn to unproven remedies. Small, everyday habits cut risk a lot and are safe for you and the baby.

Practical hygiene and food tips

Wash your hands often. Do it after using the toilet, changing diapers, handling soil, or touching pets. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you’re out and can’t wash, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol until you can wash properly.

Handle food safely. Cook meat fully, especially pork and fish, and avoid raw or undercooked dishes. Wash vegetables and fruit thoroughly—use running water and scrub firm produce. Peel when practical. Keep kitchen surfaces and cutting boards clean and separate raw meat from other foods.

Wear shoes outdoors. Many worm eggs live in soil. Walking barefoot in fields, gardens, or public play areas raises your chance of picking up larvae. Use gloves when gardening or handling soil.

Keep pets healthy. Regular deworming of dogs and cats, plus prompt cleanup of pet feces, cuts household exposure. Don’t let pets lick your face or food, and wash hands after pet contact.

Nutrition, screening, and safe medical options

Ask your provider about anemia screening. Worm infections can cause iron deficiency. If you’re low on iron, your clinician may recommend supplements or tests to find the cause. Treating anemia improves energy and lowers pregnancy risks.

In high-prevalence areas, some medical deworming is recommended during pregnancy after the first trimester. Health organizations sometimes support a single, supervised dose of an approved antiparasitic drug in the second or third trimester to reduce anemia. Don’t self-medicate—talk with your midwife or doctor for safe options based on where you live.

Avoid unproven herbal dewormers during pregnancy. Herbals can be active drugs and may affect the fetus. If you’re tempted by a natural product you saw online, bring it to your clinician before using it.

Clean water and sanitation matter. Drink treated or bottled water if your area has unsafe tap water. Use latrines or toilets and encourage good sanitation at home and community level. These steps lower the general risk of many infections, not just worms.

Know the signs to watch for: persistent tiredness, unusual belly pain, unexplained weight loss, or new digestive trouble. Any worrying symptom during pregnancy deserves a quick call to your healthcare team.

Simple, steady habits protect you more than single “miracle” cures. Wash hands, cook food well, keep pets and soil contact clean, and get screened for anemia. For any deworming medication, always check with your provider first—safety for you and your baby comes first.