Worm Risk in Pregnancy — Symptoms, Safe Treatments, and Prevention

Worried you might have a worm infection while pregnant? That’s reasonable — parasites like pinworms, hookworms, and roundworms are common in some places and can cause symptoms that matter during pregnancy. The good news: most infections are diagnosable and treatable, and there are safer options your clinician can use while you’re pregnant.

How to spot a worm infection

Symptoms vary by type of worm. Pinworms often cause intense itching around the anus, especially at night. Hookworm and roundworm infections can cause belly pain, fatigue, and sometimes anemia. Many people have mild or no symptoms, so if you’ve been exposed, ask your provider for a simple stool test or an exam. Don’t self-diagnose — accurate testing helps pick the safest treatment for you and the baby.

Safer treatment options during pregnancy

Never start medication without talking to your doctor. For pinworms, pyrantel pamoate is commonly used in pregnancy because it’s poorly absorbed into the bloodstream, which lowers fetal exposure. For soil-transmitted worms, health authorities often recommend delaying mass deworming until after the first trimester; in areas with high parasite burden and anemia risk, single-dose treatments like albendazole or mebendazole are sometimes given after the first trimester under medical supervision. That said, your provider will weigh risks and benefits based on your blood tests, pregnancy stage, and local guidelines.

Praziquantel is used for schistosomiasis and has been given in pregnancy with supportive safety data in many settings, but it should only be used under medical advice. If you’re offered any drug, ask why it’s recommended, what the risks are, and if your household needs treatment too — pinworm often spreads among family members.

Avoid over-the-counter or online remedies without a prescription. Some antiparasitics are not safe early in pregnancy or lack clear safety data. If an article or ad promises a quick pill, double-check with your obstetrician or midwife first.

Prevention matters and is simple. Wash hands thoroughly after bathroom visits and before handling food. Wash fruits and vegetables well. Wear shoes outdoors in areas where soil-transmitted worms are common. Keep nails short, clean bedding regularly, and treat family members when pinworm is confirmed.

If you have digestive symptoms, unusual itching, unexplained anemia, or known exposure, tell your provider. They’ll order tests and pick a plan that protects you and your baby. Want a deeper read? See our article on alternatives to albendazole during pregnancy for more detail and practical tips.

Short, practical steps: get tested if you suspect exposure, avoid self-medicating, follow your clinician’s timing (often after the first trimester for some drugs), and use strict hygiene to stop reinfection. That approach keeps both you and your baby safer.