Prevent worms during pregnancy: Practical steps to protect you and your baby

Worried about worm infections while pregnant? That’s normal. Parasites can cause iron loss, tummy symptoms, and worry. The good news: simple daily habits cut the risk a lot. And if you suspect an infection, there are safe, evidence-based ways to handle it with your clinician.

Simple daily habits that cut risk

Start with hand hygiene. Wash hands with soap and water after using the toilet, changing diapers, gardening, and before eating. Keep nails short—eggs hide under long nails.

Wear shoes outside. Many intestinal worms live in soil and can enter through bare feet. Avoid walking barefoot in fields or on shared dirt floors.

Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and peel if needed. Cook meat and fish until steaming hot—undercooked pork or fish can carry tapeworms and other parasites.

Use clean water for cooking and drinking. If you’re unsure about local water safety, boil it or use bottled water. Keep kitchen surfaces and utensils clean to prevent cross-contamination.

Manage pets and livestock safely. Don’t handle animal feces with bare hands. Have pets dewormed and keep litter boxes away from food prep areas. Teach kids to avoid playing where animals defecate.

When to see a doctor and treatment options

Watch for signs: ongoing stomach pain, diarrhea, visible worms in stool, unexplained iron-deficiency anemia, or itchy bottoms (common with pinworms). If you notice any of these, talk to your prenatal provider. They’ll usually order a stool test or check your blood counts before recommending treatment.

Don’t self-medicate. Some common deworming drugs aren’t recommended in early pregnancy. Many providers prefer to test first and choose a drug that fits your situation and the trimester you’re in. For example, pyrantel pamoate is often discussed as a pregnancy-friendly option for pinworms, but your doctor will confirm what’s right for you.

If treatment is needed, your provider will explain benefits and risks, and may also check household members. Treating close contacts lowers the chance of reinfection.

Finally, prevent recurrence. After treatment, repeat basic hygiene steps, wash bedding and underwear in hot water, and clean the household regularly—especially bathrooms and high-touch surfaces.

Want a quick checklist? Wash hands, wear shoes, cook food well, use safe water, keep pets controlled, get tested if symptoms appear, and follow your provider’s treatment plan. These steps protect both you and your baby without guesswork.