Special Considerations Second + Time Around?

[vonn's_mama]

So, I remember reading when I was pregnant with my ds about diseases you have to worry about getting from your child when you are pregnant with your second, etc. I'm finding it impossible not to get snot, spit, and dirty hands on me, and I'm trying to wash my hands a lot, but they're starting to crack and bleed, so I think I need to let up.

My question to those of you who have previous children is how careful you are and what you do to avoid getting germs from your older children. I don't want to distance myself from my ds, and we BF and bedshare, so I don't even know how much difference hand washing makes.

[LilMomma83]

I don't know what the "correct" answer is, but, I really haven't changed anything...I think, though, its really hard for me to change anything because Johnny is still my "baby," mentally...you know? He was REALLY sick about a week ago and I did ask the dr if I should be concerned and he didn't think so. I know chicken pox is supposed to be bad, but the dr said sense I had it as a child, even if I got it again while preggo it would probably be such a light case it wouldn't cause harm (they thought briefly my son had chicken pox--but, he didn't).

I work with kids though, and I have been a little extra cautious not to breath there air--I feel a little more concerned about "outside" germs that I might not be as "immune" too.

[kristinb]

Good question. This is definitely something I need to think about. I work with 3-4 year olds on Sundays and they're always breathing all over me! lol I know that I plan on taking my vitamins every day, getting plenty of water and rest, and maybe taking elderberry if needed (I would have to find out if that can be taken while pregnant first). My son hasn't had chicken pox yet and I wanted to expose him if possible but I guess I better put that on hold for now!

[lindsayjean]

There was a pox party this week in my area and I TOTALLY would have gone had I not just found out I was preggers. OH well, now my kids can maybe get exposed together someday.

I don't change anything day to day, though. I try to eat as healthy as I can, but I don't think having a cold is going to really harm my unborn child. When I was pg with my DD I got the flu so bad I was puking for a day STRAIGHT.

I really think proper nutrition will help your defenses, you obviously can't really avoid your toddlers boogers and coughs... at least I can't!

[bemommy]

I thought exposure to pox was only dangerous if the mother didn't have immunity?

I know that fifths disease is another that pregnant women need to be cautious of.

[lindsayjean]

Originally Posted by bemommy

I thought exposure to pox was only dangerous if the mother didn't have immunity?

You're probably right but I am not taking any chances.